Contra Costa County

Earthquakes Near Walnut Creek, California

Real-time earthquake monitoring for Walnut Creek and surrounding areas within 25 miles. Located in the San Ramon / Dublin / Pleasanton region along the Calaveras Fault.

Within 25mi

8,392

total earthquakes

30-Day Activity

170

recent earthquakes

Avg Magnitude

1.39

Max Recorded

4.5

Recent Activity Near Walnut Creek

170 earthquakes recorded within 25 miles of Walnut Creek in the last 30 days. The largest was M4.2.

Earthquake Risk in Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek is the Calaveras 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.

Walnut Creek Earthquake FAQ

Is Walnut Creek at risk for earthquakes?

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

If you feel shaking in Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek?

You can report feeling an earthquake in Walnut Creek 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 Walnut Creek?

The nearest major fault to Walnut Creek is the Calaveras 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 Walnut Creek?

The Bay Area, including areas near Walnut Creek, 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 Walnut Creek residents have?

Walnut Creek 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.

What are earthquake swarms near Walnut Creek?

The Calaveras Fault is known for producing earthquake swarms - sequences of many small earthquakes over days or weeks. If Walnut Creek is near this fault, you may experience periods of elevated seismic activity. While these swarms rarely produce damaging earthquakes, they're reminders to stay prepared.