San Mateo Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 103,555 and a calculated risk score of 98.9, San Mateo faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for San Mateo, CA. For residents of San Mateo, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for earthquakes events.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns San Mateo a Risk Score of 98.896 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Earthquake and Landslide.
Earthquake risk in San Mateo, California
San Mateo'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 Mateo 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 Mateo Area
As population density grows in California, future climate projections suggest an uptick in earthquake severity. However, our modeling, based on FEMA and NOAA datasets, assigns a score of 99.7/100. Unlike weather events, a earthquake offers no warning, demanding 24/7 readiness.
Given the environmental patterns common in California, the potential for landslides in San Mateo stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 96.4 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. Emergency kits must include shoes and gloves to navigate debris after an event.
Across the diverse landscape of California, heat wave preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 93.0 is derived from granular local inputs. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a heat wave strains the power grid.
Monitor Active Threats
San Mateo has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in San Mateo? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in San Mateo
Read the Full Guide →In San Mateo, 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 Mateo
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Earthquake now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 100.0 | Choosing between San Mateo and Los Angeles? San Mateo presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| San Francisco | 98.3 | When compared to San Francisco, San Mateo is slightly higher risk. The difference of 0.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | San Diego and San Mateo share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Mateo the edge in overall safety. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | Riverside and San Mateo share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Mateo the edge in overall safety. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | When compared to Sacramento, San Mateo is slightly higher risk. The difference of 2.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in San Mateo?
With a risk score of 99.7 for Earthquake, San Mateo 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 Mateo safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While San Mateo has its own risk profile (Total Score: 98.9), it is among the higher-risk areas in California. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to San Mateo given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 96.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in San Mateo is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does San Mateo compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how San Mateo stacks up against other cities in the state.