New Map Shows California’s Highest Earthquake Shaking Risks

OPTIMUM SEISMIC, INC.

August 2025 NEWSLETTER

New Map Shows California’s Highest Earthquake Shaking Risks

Ali Sahabi, GEC
Principal,
Optimum Seismic, Inc.

A newly released map from the California Geological Survey reveals which parts of the state face the greatest potential for damaging earthquake shaking, down to the address level. Using millions of earthquake scenarios from the U.S. Geological Survey, the data highlights high-risk zones such as the Bay Area, where violent to extreme shaking is possible along the San Andreas, Hayward, and Calaveras faults. Experts warn that all of California is vulnerable, with factors like soil type influencing how intense shaking can be.

While the map does not predict when the next quake will strike, it makes one thing clear: preparation is essential. For owners of vulnerable soft-story buildings, seismic retrofitting is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of structural failure, protect lives, and safeguard property when the inevitable earthquake hits.

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The Optimum Seismic team has been one of the leading engineering and construction companies dealing with earthquake retrofits and renovations in California since 1984. We are available to help with analysis or construction of your project.
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