Marin County

Earthquakes Near Novato, California

Real-time earthquake monitoring for Novato and surrounding areas within 25 miles. Located in the Sonoma / Napa / North Bay region along the Rodgers Creek Fault.

Within 25mi

3,170

total earthquakes

30-Day Activity

recent earthquakes

Avg Magnitude

1.39

Max Recorded

4.5

Recent Activity Near Novato

22 earthquakes recorded within 25 miles of Novato in the last 30 days. The largest was M2.3.

Earthquake Risk in Novato

Novato is located in Marin County, California, one of the most seismically active regions in the United States. The city sits within the San Francisco Bay Area, which is traversed by several major fault systems.

The nearest major fault to Novato is the Rodgers Creek Fault. This fault system is capable of producing earthquakes that could cause significant ground shaking in the area. Residents are encouraged to be prepared with emergency supplies and an earthquake plan.

Novato Earthquake FAQ

Is Novato at risk for earthquakes?

Yes, Novato is located in Marin County within the seismically active San Francisco Bay Area. The region sits near several major fault systems, including the Rodgers Creek Fault. Scientists estimate a 72% probability of a magnitude 6.7 or greater earthquake in the Bay Area within the next 30 years.

What should I do if I feel an earthquake in Novato?

If you feel shaking in Novato, remember "Drop, Cover, and Hold On." Drop to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on until the shaking stops. Stay away from windows, exterior walls, and anything that could fall. If you're outdoors, move away from buildings, power lines, and trees.

How do I report feeling an earthquake in Novato?

You can report feeling an earthquake in Novato using Bay Tremor's "Did You Feel It?" feature or through the USGS website. Your reports help scientists understand earthquake intensity distribution and improve hazard assessments for Marin County.

What is the nearest fault line to Novato?

The nearest major fault to Novato is the Rodgers Creek Fault. This fault is part of the San Andreas Fault system and is capable of producing significant earthquakes. Residents should maintain emergency supplies and have an earthquake preparedness plan.

How often do earthquakes occur near Novato?

The Bay Area, including areas near Novato, experiences hundreds of small earthquakes each year. Most are too small to feel (below magnitude 2.0), but noticeable earthquakes occur regularly. Larger earthquakes (magnitude 4.0+) that are widely felt happen several times per year across the Bay Area.

What earthquake supplies should Novato residents have?

Novato residents should prepare an earthquake kit containing: 3-7 days of water (1 gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, medications, important documents, cash, and a battery-powered radio. Also secure heavy furniture to walls and know how to shut off gas and electricity.