San Francisco Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 3,364,862 and a calculated risk score of 98.3, San Francisco faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for San Francisco, CA. Living in San Francisco offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has local climate challenges. The most significant threat to be aware of is earthquakes.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 98.283, San Francisco requires specific preparation. The data highlights Earthquake as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Earthquake risk in San Francisco, California
San Francisco's location near active fault lines makes earthquake preparedness critical for all residents. While seismic retrofitting has improved infrastructure, the potential for a significant magnitude event remains a primary hazard concern for the region.
San Francisco Earthquake Safety
- •Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to wall studs
- •Create a family communication plan for when cell towers fail
- •Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe
Top Hazards for The San Francisco Area
Long-standing weather records for California indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter earthquakes. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 99.7. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of California reveal, San Francisco faces a critical challenge with landslide events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 90.1, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Structural retrofitting for older homes can significantly mitigate the danger of landslides.
Environmental studies focusing on California highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from river flooding events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 86.3 score. For those near water, having a 'go-bag' ready for rapid evacuation is non-negotiable.
Monitor Active Threats
San Francisco has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in San Francisco? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in San Francisco
Read the Full Guide →In San Francisco, warning times are minimal. The ground can shift without notice, making immediate physical safety your priority. Your home environment needs to be 'quake-proofed' long before the shaking starts.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Store breakable items in low, latched cabinets.
- 2Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls.
- 3Identify safe spots (under sturdy tables) in each room.
- 4Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe.
- 5Know how to shut off your gas line manually and have the tool nearby.
Essential Gear for San Francisco
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Do not wait for a Earthquake warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 100.0 | Los Angeles and San Francisco share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Francisco the edge in overall safety. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | When compared to San Diego, San Francisco is statistically safer. The difference of 1.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | When compared to Riverside, San Francisco is statistically safer. The difference of 1.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | Choosing between San Francisco and Sacramento? San Francisco presents a unique set of challenges. |
| San Jose | 99.8 | San Jose and San Francisco share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Francisco the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in San Francisco?
With a risk score of 99.7 for Earthquake, San Francisco is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Earthquake events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is San Francisco safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While San Francisco has its own risk profile (Total Score: 98.3), it is among the higher-risk areas in California. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to San Francisco given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 90.1) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in San Francisco is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does San Francisco compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how San Francisco stacks up against other cities in the state.