Earthquake
An earthquake is the sudden shaking of the ground caused by movement along faults in the Earth’s crust. Earthquakes can occur without warning and may cause damage to buildings, roads, and utilities.
How This Affects Alameda County
Alameda County is located in the seismically active San Francisco Bay Area and is at risk from nearby faults, including the Hayward and Calaveras faults.
Past earthquakes highlight this risk:
1868 Hayward Fault Earthquake (M6.3-6.7) – Caused major damage in Hayward and surrounding areas
1906 San Francisco Earthquake (M7.9) – Severe regional impacts felt throughout Alameda County
1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake (M6.9) – Widespread damage, including impacts to transportation and infrastructure
Note: Earthquakes can occur at any time and may result in injuries, structural damage, and disruption to essential services. View the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Earthquake Outlook for the San Francisco Bay Region 2014-2043 for a science-based 30-year earthquake forecast for the San Francisco Bay Region.
Earthquake Safety Tips
Before an Earthquake
- Plan for individuals who may need additional support
- Prepare emergency supplies and important documents
- Identify safe places to take cover at home, work, and school
- Secure heavy furniture, appliances, and wall-mounted items
- Store heavy items on lower shelves and use cabinet latches where possible
- Know how to turn off gas, water, and electricity if instructed
During an Earthquake
Drop, Cover, and Hold On
- Drop to the ground
- Cover your head and neck and get under sturdy furniture if possible
- Hold On until the shaking stops
Additional guidance:
- Stay indoors and away from windows
- Do not run outside while shaking
- If outdoors, move away from buildings, trees, and power lines
- If driving, pull over safely and stop
After an Earthquake
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Be prepared for aftershocks
- Follow instructions from local officials before reentering areas
- Avoid damaged buildings and downed power lines
- Use text messages or online communication when possible
- Check utilities and only turn them off if you suspect damage and it is safe to do so.
The Great ShakeOut
Participating helps:
- Practice what to do, so everyone knows how to react quickly and safely during an earthquake.
- Helps you find gaps in your current emergency plan-things like missing supplies, unclear roles, or unsafe spaces.
- Gives families, schools, and workplaces a chance to work together, making sure everyone understands their responsibilities.
- Encourages you to update your emergency kits, communication plans, and building safety checks.
- Builds muscle memory, using actions like “Drop, Cover, and Hold On”, in addition to building confidence in your response
Note: Alameda County encourages residents, businesses, and organizations to participate each year. Click on the Great ShakeOut to read an overview and to learn how to join
Earthquake Resources
American Red Cross | Earthquake Safety: Learn about emergency preparedness, safety tips, and recovery support services available to individuals and families
California Earthquake Authority (CEA) | Earthquake Insurance, Preparedness & Risk Reduction: Learn about earthquake insurance options and how to protect your home and property financially
Cal OES | MyHazards Tool: Explore hazards in your area, including earthquake risks, using this interactive mapping tool
Earthquake Country Alliance: Access preparedness guidance, including the “7 Steps to Earthquake Safety,” and learn how to reduce risks at home and work
MyShake App | Earthquake Early Warning: Download the MyShake app to receive early warning alerts that may provide a few seconds of notice before shaking begins
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) | Latest Earthquakes: View real-time earthquake activity, maps, and data to understand recent events and impacts
Ready.gov | Earthquakes: Find federal guidance on how to prepare for, respond to, and recover from earthquakes