Sonoma County

Earthquakes Near Petaluma, California

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

Within 25mi

2,689

total earthquakes

30-Day Activity

recent earthquakes

Avg Magnitude

1.51

Max Recorded

4.5

Recent Activity Near Petaluma

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

Earthquake Risk in Petaluma

Petaluma is located in Sonoma 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 Petaluma 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.

Petaluma Earthquake FAQ

Is Petaluma at risk for earthquakes?

Yes, Petaluma is located in Sonoma 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 Petaluma?

If you feel shaking in Petaluma, 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 Petaluma?

You can report feeling an earthquake in Petaluma 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 Sonoma County.

What is the nearest fault line to Petaluma?

The nearest major fault to Petaluma 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 Petaluma?

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

Petaluma 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.