California Launches New Earthquake Early Warning System

OAKLAND, CA — California state officials announced the launch of a new statewide earthquake early warning system on Thursday that will send earthquake alerts to individuals' cell phones via a smartphone app.

Officials including Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the launch at a press conference in Oakland near the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge Thursday morning — the 30th anniversary of the infamous Loma-Prieta earthquake.

The new California Earthquake Early Warning System is the nation's first statewide alert system, according to a release from the governor's office.

“Nothing can replace families having a plan for earthquakes and other emergencies,” Newsom said in the release. “And we know the Big One might be around the corner. I encourage every Californian to download this app and ensure your family is earthquake ready."

The app, MyShake, uses ground motion sensors around the state to detect earthquakes before humans can feel them. It will then send an alert to residents in the area: "Earthquake. Drop, cover, hold on. Shaking expected," said Richard Allen, director of the UC Berkeley Seismological Laboratory, at Thursday's announcement.

MyShake is free and available on iOS and Android.