Millions to Join Earthquake Drill Across California: Everything to Know

Millions of Californians will pause their daily routines on Thursday to participate in the annual “Great California ShakeOut” earthquake drill. Scheduled for 10:16 a.m., the event is designed to help residents practice how to protect themselves during a major earthquake. Families, schools, businesses, and government agencies across the state are joining the exercise, with more than 10.4 million people registered to take part.

The ShakeOut is part of a broader effort to build public awareness and preparedness in a state that experiences thousands of earthquakes each year. Officials emphasize that drills like this can save lives when real earthquakes strike. The statewide event is also supported by local emergency services, with some counties — including Sacramento — testing their mass emergency alert systems at the same time.

What to Expect During the Great California ShakeOut

The ShakeOut drill is simple yet crucial. At exactly 10:16 a.m., participants are encouraged to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” — the recommended safety steps during an earthquake. This means dropping to the ground, taking cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and holding on until the shaking stops. Experts say practicing these actions can help people respond quickly and effectively when a real earthquake occurs.

The Great California ShakeOut began in 2008 and has grown into the largest earthquake preparedness drill in the United States. According to emergency officials, participation spans every sector of society — from schools and hospitals to tech companies and small businesses. In Los Angeles County alone, millions are expected to join, while Sacramento County residents may also receive emergency alerts as part of a separate annual notification test.

Authorities encourage all Californians to use the drill as an opportunity to review their emergency plans. This includes checking emergency kits, identifying safe spots in homes and workplaces, and discussing evacuation routes with family members. Preparedness experts warn that many people underestimate how little time they will have to react during a real earthquake — often just seconds — making these drills essential for safety.

California is home to several major fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault, which has the potential to produce catastrophic earthquakes. Scientists say the state is overdue for a major quake, and drills like the ShakeOut are a vital part of ensuring public readiness. State officials have repeatedly stressed that knowing what to do before disaster strikes can significantly reduce injuries and fatalities.

Why the ShakeOut Drill Matters for California’s Future

Beyond the immediate safety benefits, the ShakeOut serves as a reminder of the long-term need for resilience in earthquake-prone regions. Emergency planners use the event to test communication systems and coordinate response strategies, while schools and businesses often conduct larger preparedness exercises around the same time.

Experts say that public participation in drills also helps identify weaknesses in emergency plans. For example, a company may discover that employees do not know where emergency supplies are stored, or a family may realize they lack an out-of-state contact. Fixing these issues now could make a life-saving difference later.

Social media platforms also play a role in spreading awareness during the ShakeOut. Officials encourage participants to share their experiences online using hashtags, helping to promote earthquake preparedness beyond California. Similar drills are now held in other parts of the United States and around the world, inspired by the California model.

As California braces for the inevitable reality of future earthquakes, Thursday’s ShakeOut drill is a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation. With more than 10 million people participating statewide, it is one of the most significant public safety events of the year — and one that could help save countless lives when the next big quake hits.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Great California ShakeOut?

It’s an annual statewide earthquake drill where millions of Californians practice how to stay safe during an earthquake. It focuses on the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique.

Q2: When does the ShakeOut drill take place?

The drill is scheduled for Thursday at 10:16 a.m. across California. Participants practice earthquake safety at the same time statewide.

Q3: How many people are participating in 2025?

More than 10.4 million Californians have registered for the 2025 ShakeOut, including schools, businesses, government agencies, and families.

Q4: Why is earthquake preparedness important in California?

California is highly prone to earthquakes due to major fault lines like the San Andreas. Practicing safety steps helps reduce risk and saves lives during real quakes.

Q5: Will emergency alerts be tested too?

Yes, Sacramento County and other regions may test their emergency notification systems during the drill to ensure readiness for future disasters.