Hazard Information

An earthquake occurs when energy is released underground through the shifting and breaking of rocks underneath the surface. This can cause rapid and sudden shaking of the earth which last for seconds or several minutes.

Earthquakes can cause damage to buildings, roads and bridges, and trigger landslides.

Aftershocks are small earthquakes that happen hours, days or weeks after an earthquake. This can further damage buildings, roads and bridges weakened by the earthquake.

Safety Tips

If you are indoors:

• Drop, cover and hold — get under a sturdy piece of furniture, cover your head and hold on

• If there is nothing to duck under, crouch in a corner of the room

• Stay away from windows — shattered glass can serious injure you

• Remain inside until the shaking stops

• If you must leave, use stairs instead of an elevator in case of aftershocks, power outages or other damage

• Note — fire alarms and sprinkler systems often go off during an earthquake, even if there is no fire

If you are outdoors:

• Drop to the ground in a clear spot away from buildings, power lines, trees and streetlights

• Stay away from objects that could fall and injure you — remain there until the ground stops shaking

• Look out for falling rocks and debris if you're near slopes or cliffs

If you’re in a vehicle:

• Pull over to a safe place and stay inside

• Listen to a radio for instructions from emergency officials

• Don't leave your vehicle if downed power lines are across it — wait for help

• Stay away from anything that could collapse (e.g., bridges, overpasses, underpasses, buildings)

• If you're on a bus, stay in your seat until the bus stops — take cover in a protected place or sit in a crouched position and protect your head

Prepare Now:

Take the following steps so you and your family are prepared in the event of an emergency:

• Find safe places in every room of your home — under a piece of sturdy furniture or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases or tall furniture that could fall on you

• Practice drop, cover and hold with your entire household

• Bolt bookcases and other tall furniture to the wall

• Hang heavy items (e.g., pictures and mirrors) away from beds, couches and places where people sleep or sit

• Brace overhead light fixtures

Learn about different emergencies and how to be prepared.

Emergencies can strike anywhere, at any time.

Disaster Relief Assistance

Helps individuals, farmers, small business and non-profit organizations get back on their feet after a natural disaster.