Yavapai County to Hold Earthquake Drill

The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management (YCOEM) is inviting residents, schools, and businesses to participate in a significant earthquake drill on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 10:16 a.m. This event, part of a global initiative, aims to prepare millions of individuals for earthquake scenarios.

Understanding the Risks in Arizona

While some might think Arizona is immune to earthquakes, the reality is that the state has over 100 active faults, leading to numerous small tremors each year. According to the Arizona Geological Survey, a major earthquake poses a low-probability risk but carries serious potential consequences for the state. Therefore, practicing emergency procedures becomes crucial for everyone’s safety.

Yavapai County is especially vulnerable, with significant fault lines like the Big Chino and Verde faults. Notably, the Verde Fault may be capable of generating earthquakes that reach magnitudes of 6.5 to 7.0, risking serious damage to infrastructure.

Yavapai County Emergency Manager Ashley Ahlquist emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “We cannot afford to be complacent knowing that we have a significant fault line here in our county. Earthquakes can happen without warning. The Great ShakeOut provides a simple and effective way for everyone—families, businesses, and schools—to prepare and develop the muscle memory needed to respond appropriately.”

Drill Instructions

On October 16th at 10:16 a.m., participants will be encouraged to follow internationally recognized safety measures:

• Drop: Fall to the ground to prevent being knocked over.
• Cover: Protect your head and neck with your arms and seek shelter under a sturdy table or desk.
• Last: Remain in a safe area until the shaking subsides.

YCOEM also urges residents to utilize this drill as a springboard for enhanced preparedness, which includes drafting a family emergency plan, assembling a disaster kit, and securing heavy items like furniture and water heaters that could topple during an earthquake.

Individuals and organizations interested in participating can register for free at www.ShakeOut.org/Arizona.

To learn more about community preparedness for various hazards, visit the Yavapai County Emergency Management Agency website at www.yavapaiready.gov.