California note
Earthquake early warning is a setup task before shaking
California earthquake alerts begin only after a quake starts; some people may get seconds to act, while people close to the quake may feel shaking before an alert.
Earthquake early warning is not a prediction. It works after an earthquake has started, when sensors detect shaking and a warning can reach some phones before stronger shaking arrives.
California sends public alerts through the MyShake app, Android’s built-in system, and Wireless Emergency Alerts. They do not all use the same thresholds, and an alert may not reach every phone. People close to the earthquake can feel shaking before an alert arrives.
Setup still matters. If you use MyShake, follow the official instructions for location and notification permissions. Then make the response automatic: when an alert arrives or shaking starts, drop, cover, and hold on. The alert is a cue to act, not a forecast or a reason to wait for more information.
Where to see it
California Earthquake Early Warning and MyShake app pages.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 14, 2026
Current maps, alerts, conditions, and public safety guidance.
Conditions and public guidance can change quickly. Check the current page before you act.
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