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Living in the San Francisco Bay Area means living with earthquake risk. Scientists estimate a 72% probability of a major earthquake (M6.7+) striking the region in the next 30 years. Being prepared can save lives and reduce recovery time.
Every Bay Area household should have an earthquake emergency kit ready. Store supplies in an easily accessible location. Check and refresh your kit every 6 months.
1 gallon per person per day for at least 3 days
3-day supply per person (canned goods, energy bars)
Bandages, antiseptic, medications, pain relievers
With extra batteries (avoid candles due to gas leak risk)
NOAA Weather Radio for emergency broadcasts
For flashlights, radio, and other devices
To signal for help if trapped
N95 masks to filter contaminated air
To turn off utilities if needed
For canned food supplies
Physical maps of Bay Area in case GPS fails
Solar or hand-crank charger recommended
Copies of IDs, insurance, bank records in waterproof container
ATMs and card readers may not work; have small bills
7-day supply of any daily medications
Spare eyewear and contact solution
Warm sleeping gear for each person
Including sturdy shoes for walking through debris
Toilet paper, garbage bags, hand sanitizer
Food, water, medications, carrier for pets
Activities for children during sheltering
ABC type for home fires
Pro Tip: Keep a smaller "grab bag" version of your kit by your bed or front door. If you need to evacuate quickly, you'll have essential supplies immediately available.
During a major earthquake, cell networks may be overloaded. Having a plan ensures your family can reconnect even if you're separated.
Most earthquake injuries happen from falling objects, not structural collapse. Securing your home significantly reduces injury risk.
Get down on your hands and knees before the earthquake knocks you down.
Cover your head and neck with your arms. Get under a sturdy desk or table if possible.
Stay in position and hold on to your shelter until shaking stops.
The Bay Area faces unique earthquake risks due to multiple active fault lines and varied geology. Understanding your local risks helps you prepare appropriately.
Called "the most dangerous fault in America." Runs through Oakland, Berkeley, Fremont. Overdue for a major earthquake.
Affected cities: Oakland, Berkeley, Hayward, Fremont →California's most famous fault. Caused the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Runs along the Peninsula and through San Francisco.
Affected cities: San Francisco, Daly City, Pacifica →Causes frequent earthquake swarms in the Tri-Valley area. Runs through San Ramon, Dublin, and the East Bay hills.
Affected cities: San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton →Northern extension of the Hayward Fault. Runs through Sonoma County wine country and Santa Rosa.
Affected cities: Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Healdsburg →Parts of the Bay Area built on filled land or soft soil are at risk of liquefaction, where the ground behaves like liquid during strong shaking. High-risk areas include:
California's earthquake early warning system can give you seconds to tens of seconds of warning before shaking arrives at your location. Download these free apps:
From UC Berkeley - iOS & Android
Built into Android phones
Stay informed about earthquake activity in your area.