Government risk assessment for homebuyers considering 94541. Data from FEMA, USGS, CAL FIRE, CGS, OpenFEMA, and EPA.
F
Estimated Risk Exposure
$86,000
Ranked #4 of 25 Bay Area zip codes analyzed
82
Risk Score (0–100)
Identified Risks
⚡Hayward Fault runs through city
🌊FEMA flood zones
⚠️22 FEMA disasters
🏚️Liquefaction
Risk Assessment Detail
The Hayward Fault literally runs through the city center. USGS identifies this as one of the most dangerous urban faults in the US. There's a 33% probability of a 6.7+ magnitude earthquake on this fault before 2043. Creek flood zones throughout.
FEMA Flood ZoneAE (creek areas)
Nearest FaultHayward Fault (Runs through city)
Wildfire SeverityNot mapped in fire zone
Liquefaction RiskYes — mapped by CGS
FEMA Disaster Declarations22 since 2000
CountyAlameda County, CA
💰 Insurance & Cost Implications
CEA earthquake insurance critical — Hayward Fault is considered overdue for a major event. Flood insurance for creek-adjacent properties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 94541 in a flood zone?
Yes — FEMA maps show flood zone designation AE (creek areas) in parts of Hayward. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones starting with A or V) require mandatory flood insurance if you have a federally-backed mortgage. Premiums typically range from $2,000 to $4,500 per year.
What is the earthquake risk in Hayward?
Hayward is located Runs through city from the Hayward Fault. The California Geological Survey has mapped liquefaction zones in this area, meaning the ground could become unstable during a major earthquake. Alameda County has experienced 22 FEMA disaster declarations since 2000. The California Earthquake Authority (CEA) offers residential earthquake insurance — coverage is optional but recommended this close to active faults.
Are there wildfire risks in Hayward?
Hayward is not in a CAL FIRE-designated wildfire severity zone. Wildfire risk is minimal for most properties in 94541. This is one area where this zip code has a lower risk profile compared to hillside and canyon communities.
How is the $86,000 exposure calculated?
The exposure estimate is based on industry-standard cost models: NFIP average flood insurance claims, USGS earthquake damage probability models, CAL FIRE wildfire rebuilding cost data, and historical disaster costs from OpenFEMA. It represents the estimated financial impact of the identified risks based on what these events actually cost homeowners. Individual properties will vary based on exact location, construction, elevation, and proximity to specific hazards.
Data Sources & Methodology
Flood zones: FEMA National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) — msc.fema.gov