Great Shake Out Millions of Californians participate in annual earthquake drill

On October 16, 2025, millions of Californians participated in the Great California Shakeout, an earthquake preparedness drill held annually on the third Thursday of October. A 3. 1 magnitude earthquake struck Berkeley shortly before the drill, serving as a timely reminder of the importance of preparedness. During the exercise, participants practiced the steps of drop, cover, and hold on, while alerts were sent through the "MyShake" app. BART trains slowed down as part of the safety protocol.

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee highlighted the city's improved readiness, stating that they are building resilience hubs and enhancing emergency alert systems, which were lacking during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake. The city has also initiated a seismic strengthening program to bolster infrastructure. Experts advise residents to maintain emergency kits with essential supplies to ensure safety after a disaster. The drill aims to instill a culture of preparedness among Californians in the face of potential earthquakes.