California Earthquake Risk and How to Prepare

Earthquakes Happen All the Time

California is home to two-thirds of our nation’s earthquake risk

We all know that California is earthquake country. But do you know your local risk? Learn about earthquake faults in your area, and discover the disruptions that could occur after a big quake.

Learn more about your Local Risk

Preparing Your House

Do you know the importance of seismic retrofitting? Learn about geological risks for houses in California, discover available options, and get resources needed to prepare your older house against earthquake damage.

Learn how to strengthen your house

Earthquake Risk FAQs

We've gathered some frequently asked questions about earthquake risk to help you understand how an earthquake could affect you. Learn more about your local risk and how to prepare for earthquakes.

Q. What is the risk of a California earthquake?

A. According to the third Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast (UCERF3) report, in the next 30 years, there is a:

More than 99% chance a M6.7 or greater earthquake will strike somewhere in California
75% chance a M7.0 or greater earthquake will strike Southern California
76% chance a M7.0 or greater earthquake will strike Northern California

Q. Is my home at risk from an earthquake?

A. There are thousands of known faults in California, and scientists continue to discover new ones. Since earthquakes can happen anywhere in California, damage to your home and personal property is always possible. Check to see earthquake risk near you and take steps to get prepared!

Q. What fault is California on?

A. The state of California isn’t on any one particular fault, but rather, on thousands of known faults that crisscross the state. Scientists continue to discover new faults all the time.

Q. Do I still need earthquake insurance if my home isn’t on or near an earthquake fault?

A. Most Californians live within 30 miles of an active fault and earthquakes can strike anywhere, at any time—even on previously unknown faults. Even if your home is miles away from a fault or the epicenter of an earthquake, you could still experience damage from an earthquake.

Q. What could the Big One earthquake look like in California?

A. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the Big One is a hypothetical southern California 7.8M earthquake modeled to cause 1800 deaths and cause $213 billion in economic losses.

See All FAQs

Recent California Earthquake Activity

M 3.1

7km NE of Aguanga, CA