San Francisco Faces Earthquake Risk as City Flags Nearly 4,000 Vulnerable Buildings

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Newspot Nigeria

In the wake of a powerful earthquake that shook Southern California earlier this week, officials in San Francisco are intensifying efforts to assess and mitigate seismic risks across the city. A recent report estimates that nearly 4,000 concrete buildings in the city could collapse if a major earthquake—commonly referred to as “the Big One”—strikes.

The city’s Department of Building Inspection has compiled a preliminary list of at-risk buildings. While officials admit that the current list may contain inaccuracies, they say it serves as a critical starting point for a broader seismic safety initiative.

To address the threat, San Francisco’s Building Inspection Commission is scheduled to vote on Wednesday on a new ordinance that would require property owners of concrete buildings to hire engineers to conduct seismic safety screenings. Depending on the building, the cost of this screening could range from $300 to $3,200.

“This legislation will give us the information we need to better prepare for when the ‘Big One’ comes,” said Supervisor Myrna Melgar, who introduced the measure. “Ensuring that San Franciscans and visitors can trust in the safety of our built environment is crucial for our City.”

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The proposed law does not compel building owners to undertake retrofitting, but it does set a standard framework for identifying seismic hazards and encourages voluntary upgrades. Officials highlight that many of the buildings on the preliminary list are concentrated in downtown neighborhoods such as South of Market and the Tenderloin—areas with high foot traffic and dense populations.

The move is seen as a proactive step toward safeguarding lives and infrastructure in one of the world’s most earthquake-prone regions. With increased pressure following the recent quake down south, San Francisco hopes to gain a clearer picture of its seismic vulnerabilities and rally support for safer, more resilient communities.

Reporting by Newspot Nigeria.

– Patch