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Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads

Earthquake early warning app surges to 4M downloads
Photo by Getty Images
May 01, 2025
Sowjanya Pedada - LA Post

Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the state's earthquake early warning application, the MyShake app, has reached over four million downloads, equivalent to more than 10% of California's population.

MyShake notifies users before earthquake shaking begins through a statewide network of ground motion sensors that detect seismic activity.

"MyShake provides Californians with life-saving seconds before earthquakes strike. This milestone is a proud moment for California, and a reminder that preparedness is a continuous effort," Newsom said.

Launched in 2019, the California Earthquake Early Warning System has grown considerably. Since the program's inception, over 60% of its 1,046 sensors have been installed. These additional sensors have enhanced system accuracy and shortened alert delivery times.

The app proved effective last week during a 5.2 magnitude earthquake near Julian in San Diego County, sending 693,044 alerts to users. Some recipients had as much as 35 seconds of warning before feeling any shaking. The event triggered 7.5 million alerts across all warning platforms.

The system integrates the smartphone application with conventional alert delivery systems like Wireless Emergency Alerts. By incorporating early warning technology into widely used mobile devices, the system now reaches a majority of Californians.

Since its operation, MyShake has issued over five million alerts covering nearly 170 earthquakes.

Users can download the app in six languages – English, Spanish, Chinese (Traditional), Tagalog, Korean, and Vietnamese. The application runs on iOS, Android, and Chromebooks and offers earthquake and tsunami preparedness resources.

The app features "Homebase," which enables users to designate a default location for receiving alerts when their device's location services are turned off or unavailable.

Emergency management officials suggest using the MyShake app alongside the Cal OES Earthquake Readiness Guide, which provides detailed safety protocols and preparedness measures for earthquake scenarios.

The application is free, and officials encourage residents to promote the app to their communities to expand its reach. Information about earthquake safety and the MyShake app can be found at www.earthquake.ca.gov.

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