Hayward Fault

The Hayward Fault is a major geological fault line running through the San Francisco Bay Area, part of the active fault system that can cause earthquakes. It is a strike-slip fault, meaning the land on either side moves horizontally past each other. The fault stretches about 74 miles and is closely monitored because it has the potential to produce significant earthquakes, posing risks to nearby communities. Historically, it’s been responsible for destructive tremors, making understanding and preparing for its activity important for regional safety. The Hayward Fault is a critical part of California’s complex fault network that shapes the region’s seismic landscape.