San Mateo County

Earthquakes Near South San Francisco, California

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

Within 25mi

9,260

total earthquakes

30-Day Activity

recent earthquakes

Avg Magnitude

1.28

Max Recorded

4.4

Recent Activity Near South San Francisco

52 earthquakes recorded within 25 miles of South San Francisco in the last 30 days. The largest was M2.5.

Earthquake Risk in South San Francisco

South San Francisco is located in San Mateo 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 South San Francisco 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.

South San Francisco Earthquake FAQ

Is South San Francisco at risk for earthquakes?

Yes, South San Francisco is located in San Mateo 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 South San Francisco?

If you feel shaking in South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco?

You can report feeling an earthquake in South San Francisco 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 San Mateo County.

What is the nearest fault line to South San Francisco?

The nearest major fault to South San Francisco 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 South San Francisco?

The Bay Area, including areas near South San Francisco, 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 South San Francisco residents have?

South San Francisco 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 South San Francisco?

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. South San Francisco's proximity to this fault means strong shaking is likely in a major event.