California’s ShakeOut Drill Prepares Residents for Major Earthquakes

LOS ANGELES, California — California residents are urged to prepare for potential earthquakes during the annual ShakeOut drill on Thursday, October 19, 2025. The drill highlights the importance of earthquake readiness, especially as experts warn that the next big earthquake—known as the “Big One”—is inevitable.

California State Geologist Jeremy Lancaster noted that 70% of Californians live within 30 miles of an active fault. “We have seven active volcanoes; we have landslides; we have tsunamis; we have thousands of miles of active faults,” he said during a recent webinar about earthquake preparedness.

In Southern California, the drill will take place at the Los Angeles Emergency Operations Center, while the San Francisco Bay Area will host its ceremony in front of Oakland City Hall. The ShakeOut serves as a crucial reminder for residents to practice safety protocols.

Experts advise following the “drop, cover, and hold on” method during an earthquake. Wendy Bohon, branch chief of seismic hazards at the California Geological Survey, emphasized, “Drop down to the ground. Take cover underneath a sturdy object like a table. And hold on until all the shaking has stopped.” Running outside can put individuals at risk from falling debris, especially near brick buildings.

Historical data from the 1989 Loma Prieta and the 1994 Northridge earthquakes revealed that 50% of injuries were caused by falling objects. Sara McBride, executive director of the California Seismic Safety Commission, noted, “You’re twice as likely to be injured in an earthquake if you’re moving around inside.”

Residents are encouraged to secure heavy furniture and assess their homes for potential hazards. In older homes built before 1979, the foundation may include a structure known as a “cripple wall,” which can fail during an earthquake. Retrofitting these homes can cost between $5,000 and $6,000, but grants are available to assist owners.

Additionally, California’s earthquake early warning app, MyShake, alerts users seconds before shaking begins, allowing them to find safety. Officials stress the importance of knowing evacuation routes, as tsunami hazard zones can extend inland, potentially affecting areas far from the coast.

As California continues to deepen its understanding of seismic risks, the potential for “supershear” earthquakes presents new challenges. These can result in more intense shaking and increased damage, necessitating updates in infrastructure resilience and building codes.

While the last major earthquake happened over three decades ago, California’s preparedness initiatives aim to mitigate risks as the looming threat of the next quake persists. The ShakeOut drill is just one step towards ensuring the safety and resilience of communities statewide.