Contra Costa County

Earthquakes Near Orinda, California

Real-time earthquake monitoring for Orinda and surrounding areas within 25 miles. Located in the Berkeley / Oakland / Piedmont region along the Hayward Fault.

Within 25mi

10,420

total earthquakes

30-Day Activity

194

recent earthquakes

Avg Magnitude

1.34

Max Recorded

4.5

Recent Activity Near Orinda

194 earthquakes recorded within 25 miles of Orinda in the last 30 days. The largest was M4.2.

Earthquake Risk in Orinda

Orinda is located in Contra Costa 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 Orinda is the Hayward 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.

Orinda Earthquake FAQ

Is Orinda at risk for earthquakes?

Yes, Orinda is located in Contra Costa County within the seismically active San Francisco Bay Area. The region sits near several major fault systems, including the Hayward 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 Orinda?

If you feel shaking in Orinda, 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 Orinda?

You can report feeling an earthquake in Orinda 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 Contra Costa County.

What is the nearest fault line to Orinda?

The nearest major fault to Orinda is the Hayward 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 Orinda?

The Bay Area, including areas near Orinda, 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 Orinda residents have?

Orinda 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.

Why is the Hayward Fault dangerous for Orinda?

The Hayward Fault runs through densely populated East Bay cities and is considered one of the most dangerous faults in the U.S. Scientists call it "ticking time bomb" - it last ruptured in 1868 (magnitude 6.8) and has an average recurrence interval of about 140 years. Orinda's proximity to this fault means strong shaking is likely in a major event.