Earthquake

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Earthquakes are one of the highest-risk hazards facing Cupertino. A major earthquake can cause severe shaking, aftershocks, and widespread damage that impacts homes, infrastructure, and community safety.

This page explains local earthquake risks, what you can do to prepare, and how the City of Cupertino is working to reduce impacts.

What is an Earthquake?

An earthquake is the shaking of the ground caused by a sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust. This can happen when rock layers shift or break under stress. Earthquakes may last only a few seconds or several minutes. Aftershocks can continue for days, months, or even years after the main event. 

Most injuries are not caused by the ground shaking itself, but by falling objects, collapsing structures, and fires or hazardous materials released during the quake. Earthquake impacts can include:

  • Falling debris and collapsing structures

  • Power, water, gas, sewer, and internet outages

  • Fires caused by damaged lines or infrastructure

  • Landslides or dam failures triggered by ground movement

How You Can Prepare

Earthquake Ready in Four Steps

  • Sign up for alerts → alertscc.org

  • Make a plan → Decide how to communicate, meet, and evacuate.

  • Build an emergency supply kit → Prepare a “Go Bag” and supplies for at least three days.

  • Help your community → Volunteer and share preparedness info. 

Before an Earthquake

You can reduce risks in your home with simple, low-cost steps:

  • Move heavy items from high shelves to lower storage.

  • Avoid hanging heavy objects above beds or sofas.

  • Secure furniture, appliances, and cabinets to wall studs.

  • Install safety latches on cupboards.

  • Organize important documents and consider earthquake insurance.

  • Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with your family.

During an Earthquake

When the shaking starts:

  • DROP to the ground.

  • COVER your head and neck under a sturdy desk or table (or next to an interior wall).

  • HOLD ON until the shaking stops.

  • Drop, Cover & Hold On.png

Stay away from windows, glass, and heavy objects that could fall. Do not run outside. If you’re in bed, stay there and cover your head with a pillow.

After an Earthquake

Once shaking stops:

  • Be ready for aftershocks → Drop, Cover, Hold On again if needed.

  • Look for hazards like gas leaks, downed lines, or damaged buildings.

  • Extinguish small fires if safe to do so.

  • Shut off gas and power if you suspect damage.

  • Avoid candles or matches if gas leaks are possible.

  • Open cabinets carefully—items may have shifted.

  • Treat injuries if you can, and check on neighbors.

Earthquake Resources

Earthquake Risk In Cupertino

  • 16,413 buildings in Cupertino are vulnerable to earthquake damage.

  • Estimated structural and content value at risk: $13.9 billion.

  • Property loss estimates (Hazus analysis):

    • 100-year earthquake → about $623 million in losses

    • 500-year earthquake → about $2 billion in losses

  • The greatest risk is from a major earthquake on the San Andreas Fault.

What The City Is Doing

The City of Cupertino works with local, state, and regional partners on earthquake mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery.

Mitigation

  • Seismic retrofits and infrastructure upgrades (outlined in the City Work Program).

  • Strengthening evacuation routes and critical facilities.

Preparedness

  • Emergency preparedness training for residents throughout the year.

  • Annual Public Safety Forum each October with resources and workshops.

  • View and register for events on the City Calendar

Response

  • Partnerships with the American Red Cross and other organizations to staff shelters.

  • Training for City staff to support care and shelter operations.

  • Development of key emergency management plans:

Recovery

Recovery after a major earthquake can take years. The City will connect residents with local, state, and federal resources for housing, rebuilding, and community recovery.

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