Seismic Hazards Branch

Damaged Building

6.0 Magnitude Earthquake in the City of Napa | Cal OES News | Published: Sep 11, 2014

Earthquake Damaged Road

A road was heavily damaged in Ridgecrest due to the earthquake on the 4th of July. (Courtesy: @Emily31377)

Earthquake Damaged Home

6.4-magnitude earthquake rocks Southern California | Creator: Matt Hartman | Credit: AP

​Our Purpose​

The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) Seismic Hazards Branch continues to focus on improving the safety of California’s residents and visitors before disaster strikes by enhancing earthquake, tsunami, and volcano preparedness. The Branch is responsible for promoting efforts to reduce earthquake risks; enhance tsunami planning, preparedness, and hazard mitigation among coastal communities; as well as promote volcanic awareness, planning, and preparedness in vulnerable areas within California. Furthermore, the Branch is charged with the development and implementation of the California Earthquake Early Warning System, the country’s first publicly available, statewide warning system that could give California residents crucial seconds to take cover before you feel shaking.

Explore this Section

Earthquake Preparedness

Learn About Earthquakes and How to Prepare.

Tsunami Preparedness

Learn About Tsunamis and How to Prepare.

Volcano Preparedness

Learn About Volcanoes and How to Prepare.

California Earthquake Early Warning System

Learn About Earthquake Early Warning.

José Lara

José Lara

Branch Manager

Office: (916) 845-8883
Email: jose.lara@pfwt.caloes.ca.gov