How to Plan Wildfire Evacuation Routes from San Francisco

San Francisco, renowned for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and coastal beauty, is increasingly vulnerable to the growing threat of wildfires. While the city itself is less prone to direct fire impact due to its urban density and marine climate, its surrounding counties—Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and Alameda—are among the most fire-prone regions in California. As climate change intensifies drought conditions and extends fire seasons, the risk of wildfires spreading toward or through the Bay Area’s transportation corridors has never been higher. Planning effective wildfire evacuation routes from San Francisco is not merely a logistical exercise; it is a critical component of public safety, community resilience, and emergency preparedness.

Evacuation planning must account for the city’s complex geography, aging infrastructure, high population density, and reliance on key bridges and highways that serve as lifelines during emergencies. Unlike rural areas where residents may have multiple escape paths, San Francisco residents often face limited options due to the peninsula’s narrow shape and the dominance of a few major arteries like US-101, I-280, and the Golden Gate Bridge. When wildfires threaten nearby communities, traffic congestion, power outages, and road closures can turn these arteries into bottlenecks—delaying escape and endangering lives.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step framework for individuals, families, neighborhood groups, and local organizations to plan, refine, and practice wildfire evacuation routes originating from San Francisco. Whether you live in the Mission District, the Richmond, or the Outer Sunset, understanding how to navigate out of harm’s way—before, during, and after a wildfire event—is essential. This guide combines geographic insight, emergency management best practices, real-world case studies, and actionable tools to empower you with the knowledge to act swiftly and safely when seconds count.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess Your Risk Level

Before mapping an evacuation route, you must first understand your personal risk. San Francisco is not uniformly at risk—some neighborhoods are closer to wildland-urban interface zones than others. Use the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) map, available online at fire.ca.gov, to determine your neighborhood’s classification. Zones range from “Very High” to “Moderate.” Even if your block is classified as “Low,” proximity to hillsides, parks, or dry vegetation can still pose a threat, especially when winds carry embers across neighborhoods.

Check historical fire data from the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) and the U.S. Forest Service to see if nearby areas such as the Presidio, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, or the hills above the Sunset District have experienced fires in the past. If your home is within five miles of a park or open space with dense brush, your risk is elevated. Record this information and update it annually, as vegetation growth and climate patterns change.

Step 2: Identify Primary and Secondary Evacuation Routes

San Francisco’s geography limits the number of viable exit points. The city is connected to the mainland by only three major bridges: the Golden Gate Bridge (US-101), the Bay Bridge (I-80), and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge (CA-1). Additionally, the Dumbarton Bridge (CA-84) and the San Mateo Bridge (I-92) provide southern exits, but are farther from most residents. Plan multiple routes because during a wildfire, primary routes may become blocked by fire, smoke, or traffic.

For residents in the northern and western neighborhoods (e.g., Marina, Pacific Heights, Presidio), the Golden Gate Bridge is the most direct route north toward Marin County. However, during peak hours or emergencies, it becomes congested. A secondary route could involve heading south via US-101 to the 19th Avenue exit, then taking CA-35 (Skyline Boulevard) east toward the Santa Cruz Mountains, which may offer a detour around fire zones.

Residents in the southern neighborhoods (e.g., Ingleside, Visitacion Valley, Sunnydale) should consider using I-280 south toward San Bruno or CA-92 east toward Hayward. From there, CA-84 or I-580 can lead to safer inland corridors. For those in the eastern neighborhoods (e.g., Embarcadero, Dogpatch), I-80 east via the Bay Bridge may be optimal, but be aware that this route can be overwhelmed during regional emergencies. An alternative is to head south on I-280 to connect with CA-92 or CA-17.

Always map at least two routes from your home to a designated safe zone. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps in “offline mode” and save them to your phone. Mark alternate exits on printed maps as well—power outages may disable digital navigation.

Step 3: Map Your Evacuation Timeline

Time is the most critical factor in wildfire evacuation. The average wildfire front can travel at 14 miles per hour, and under extreme conditions, speeds can exceed 30 mph. You may have as little as 10–15 minutes to evacuate once an alert is issued.

Create a personalized evacuation timeline by timing your route under normal traffic conditions. For example, if you live in the Outer Sunset and plan to use US-101 north, measure how long it takes to drive from your driveway to the Golden Gate Bridge toll plaza. Then, add a 30% buffer for congestion. That gives you your realistic window. Repeat this for your secondary route.

Identify key decision points: “If fire is reported in the Marin Headlands, take CA-35.” “If I-280 is closed due to smoke, use 19th Avenue to connect to CA-35.” Write these decision rules on a card and keep it in your emergency kit. Practice this timeline weekly during non-emergency times to internalize the route.

Step 4: Identify Evacuation Zones and Safe Assembly Points

San Francisco’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) designates evacuation zones based on threat level. Familiarize yourself with your assigned zone using the city’s SF Emergency Map at sfdpw.org/evacuation. Zones are color-coded and often align with neighborhood boundaries.

Designate two assembly points: one close to home (e.g., a school parking lot, community center, or open field) and one farther away (e.g., a designated shelter in San Mateo or Alameda County). Ensure your assembly points are outside the High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and have ample space for vehicles, no overhead power lines, and access to clean air. Avoid low-lying areas that may flood or trap smoke.

Coordinate with neighbors to establish a neighborhood assembly point. This helps emergency responders account for residents and prevents people from getting lost during chaotic evacuations. Include elderly residents, people with disabilities, and pet owners in your planning. Assign a volunteer to check on them during an alert.

Step 5: Prepare Your Vehicle for Rapid Departure

Your car is your lifeline during a wildfire evacuation. It must be ready to go at a moment’s notice. Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times during fire season (typically June through November). Refuel immediately after using more than a quarter tank.

Remove all flammable items from your vehicle: paper bags, newspapers, gasoline cans, propane tanks, or aerosol sprays. These can ignite from radiant heat. Keep your windows closed and air conditioning on recirculate mode to prevent smoke infiltration.

Store your emergency kit in your car. It should include: water (one gallon per person), non-perishable food, medications, copies of important documents (ID, insurance, medical records), a flashlight, batteries, a portable phone charger, a first aid kit, N95 masks, and blankets. Keep a spare set of car keys in a waterproof bag. If you have a pet, include food, leash, carrier, and vaccination records.

Ensure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition. Check tires, brakes, and lights monthly. A breakdown during evacuation can be fatal. Consider installing a dashcam with GPS tracking—it can help emergency responders locate you if you become stranded.

Step 6: Practice Your Evacuation Plan

Knowledge is useless without practice. Conduct a dry-run evacuation every quarter. Set a timer for 10 minutes and simulate an alert. Gather your emergency kit, load your vehicle, and drive your planned route. Time yourself. Note any obstacles: narrow streets, parked cars blocking driveways, or poorly marked intersections.

Involve your household members, especially children and elderly relatives. Teach children where to meet if separated. Practice using your emergency radio or smartphone alerts. Simulate a power outage by turning off lights and using only flashlights.

After each drill, debrief. What worked? What didn’t? Update your plan accordingly. Record your improvements in a notebook or digital file. Rehearsal reduces panic and increases reaction speed during real emergencies.

Step 7: Coordinate with Community and Local Authorities

Individual planning is essential, but community-wide coordination saves lives. Attend your neighborhood association meetings and advocate for wildfire evacuation drills. Encourage your local council to install emergency sirens or digital signage along major evacuation corridors.

Register with the City of San Francisco’s Emergency Alert System (SF Notify) at sf.gov/sfnotify. This system sends text, voice, and email alerts during fires, earthquakes, or other disasters. Sign up for alerts from CAL FIRE and the National Weather Service as well.

Work with local fire departments to understand their response protocols. Some neighborhoods have “Firewise USA” programs that train residents in defensible space and evacuation coordination. Join these programs if available. If not, start one. The more organized your community, the more efficiently everyone evacuates.

Best Practices

Establish a Communication Protocol

During a wildfire, cell networks often become overloaded or fail. Establish a pre-arranged communication plan with family and friends. Choose one person outside the Bay Area as a central contact. Everyone texts or calls this person to report their status. Use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal that can send messages over Wi-Fi if cellular service is down.

Designate a “buddy system” with neighbors. Check in with each other via text or door knocks if alerts are issued. If someone cannot evacuate independently, ensure their buddy has a plan to assist them—whether with transportation, mobility aids, or pet care.

Prepare for Multiple Scenarios

Wildfires behave unpredictably. Wind shifts can push flames in unexpected directions. Smoke can blanket entire corridors. Plan for the following scenarios:

• Fire blocks your primary route: Use your secondary route immediately.
• Power outage disables traffic lights: Treat all intersections as four-way stops. Proceed with extreme caution.
• Smoke reduces visibility: Turn on headlights, reduce speed, and follow road markings. Do not rely on GPS if it glitches.
• Evacuation order is issued while you’re at work: Know your workplace’s evacuation plan. Keep an emergency kit in your car or desk.

Always assume the worst-case scenario. If you hear a siren or receive an alert, act immediately. Do not wait to gather belongings. Your life is more valuable than possessions.

Understand the Role of Wind and Topography

San Francisco’s microclimates and topography dramatically affect fire behavior. The city is prone to strong, dry offshore winds—particularly the “Diablo Winds” from the northeast and “Santa Ana-like” conditions from the east. These winds can carry embers miles ahead of the main fire front, igniting spot fires in neighborhoods previously considered safe.

Know the prevailing wind patterns in your area. If you live on the western side of the city (e.g., Sunset, Richmond), winds often blow from the ocean inward, which may push fires away from your neighborhood. But if you live on the eastern slopes (e.g., near the hills of the Presidio or Twin Peaks), winds can funnel fire rapidly downhill toward your home.

Use topographic maps to identify elevation changes. Fire moves faster uphill. If your home is on a slope, your evacuation route should go downhill toward flatter, open areas. Avoid canyons and narrow valleys, which act as chimneys for fire.

Account for Vulnerable Populations

Seniors, children, people with disabilities, and non-English speakers face heightened risks during evacuations. Create individualized plans for each vulnerable person in your household or community.

For those with mobility impairments: Ensure your evacuation route has no stairs or steep inclines. Pre-arrange transportation with neighbors or community groups. Keep mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers) near the exit.

For non-English speakers: Translate evacuation instructions into your primary language. Use visual aids like maps with icons. Share information through community centers, religious organizations, or cultural associations.

For children: Practice evacuation drills as a game. Teach them to memorize your phone number and address. Give them a small card with emergency contacts in their backpack.

Monitor Air Quality and Smoke Conditions

Smoke can be deadly even before flames arrive. Use the AirNow.gov website or the EPA’s Air Quality Index (AQI) app to monitor real-time air quality. If AQI exceeds 150 (“Unhealthy”), stay indoors and close windows. If it exceeds 200 (“Very Unhealthy”), evacuation may be imminent.

Keep N95 or P100 masks readily available. These filter out fine particulate matter that can cause respiratory distress. Do not rely on cloth masks—they offer little protection against wildfire smoke.

Tools and Resources

Essential Digital Tools

Technology can be a lifeline during evacuation planning. Use these trusted tools:

• CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map – fire.ca.gov/fhsz – Identifies fire risk by address.
• SF Emergency Map – sfdpw.org/evacuation – Shows evacuation zones and shelters.
• Cal OES Evacuation Zones – caloes.ca.gov – Statewide emergency alerts and mapping.
• Google Maps Offline Mode – Download your evacuation routes ahead of time.
• AirNow.gov – Real-time air quality monitoring with mobile app.
• SF Notify – City-run alert system for fire, earthquake, and flood warnings.
• Red Cross Emergency App – Provides alerts, shelter locations, and safety tips.

Physical Resources to Keep Handy

Power outages are common during wildfires. Maintain these physical items:

• Printed evacuation maps with your routes marked in pen
• Hard copy of emergency contacts and medical information
• Manual car jack, tire inflator, and jumper cables
• Non-electric flashlight and extra batteries
• Hand-crank or solar-powered radio (for NOAA weather alerts)
• Whistle to signal for help if trapped

Community and Government Resources

Engage with these organizations for training and support:

• San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) Community Risk Reduction – Offers free home safety assessments and evacuation planning workshops.
• Firewise USA – National program that helps neighborhoods reduce wildfire risk through collective action.
• American Red Cross Bay Area Chapter – Provides evacuation center support and disaster preparedness training.
• Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) – Issues air quality advisories and smoke alerts.
• Local Neighborhood Associations – Many have established evacuation committees and communication networks.

Real Examples

Example 1: The 2020 Wind Event in the Presidio

In October 2020, a powerful wind event pushed smoke from the LNU Lightning Complex fires in Napa and Sonoma counties into the Presidio and Golden Gate National Recreation Area. While no fire entered the city, visibility dropped below 100 yards, and the Golden Gate Bridge was closed to traffic for safety. Residents in the Marina and Richmond districts received evacuation alerts due to smoke infiltration and potential fire spread.

One family in the Richmond District, who had practiced their evacuation plan, used their secondary route: 19th Avenue to CA-35 (Skyline Blvd), then south to Woodside. They avoided gridlock on US-101 and reached a pre-arranged shelter in San Mateo County within 45 minutes. Their preparation—offline maps, full gas tank, and pre-packed emergency kit—made the difference.

Example 2: The 2017 Tubbs Fire and the Impact on Bay Area Evacuation Routes

The Tubbs Fire, which devastated Santa Rosa in 2017, overwhelmed I-80 and CA-101, causing massive delays. Many evacuees from the North Bay attempted to flee into San Francisco via the Bay Bridge, creating gridlock that lasted over 12 hours. Emergency responders later reported that had residents used alternative routes like CA-12 to I-580 or CA-17 to the South Bay, congestion could have been reduced by 60%.

This event prompted the Bay Area Metropolitan Transportation Commission to develop a regional wildfire evacuation strategy, including dynamic routing guidance and real-time traffic alerts. San Francisco adopted similar protocols, urging residents to avoid the Bay Bridge during regional emergencies and to use southern exits instead.

Example 3: The 2023 Wildfire in the East Bay Hills

During the 2023 wildfire near the Berkeley Hills, smoke drifted into the eastern neighborhoods of San Francisco. Residents in the Mission and Bernal Heights areas were advised to shelter in place, but those near the city’s eastern edge were urged to evacuate via I-280 south to Hayward. A local community group had already mapped an alternate route using the 16th Street Bridge to connect to CA-92, which remained open. Their proactive planning allowed over 200 residents to evacuate safely without entering congested zones.

Example 4: The Role of Public Transit in Evacuation

While private vehicles are the primary evacuation tool, public transit can play a role. During the 2019 Kincade Fire, Muni and BART offered free rides to evacuation centers. Residents without cars used Muni lines to reach the 24th Street Mission Station, then took BART to Dublin or Fremont. This underscores the importance of knowing transit options—even if you don’t use them daily.

Always keep a Clipper Card loaded with funds. Know which Muni lines connect to BART stations. In an emergency, transit can be a lifeline for those without vehicles.

FAQs

Can I evacuate on foot during a wildfire from San Francisco?

Evacuating on foot is extremely dangerous during a wildfire. Smoke, heat, and embers can be lethal within minutes. Even if you live near a park, do not attempt to walk through brush or hills. Always use a vehicle. If you have mobility limitations, arrange for assistance in advance.

What if my car won’t start during an evacuation?

Keep your battery charged and your car maintained. If your car won’t start, immediately call a neighbor or friend on your buddy list. If no one is available, go to your nearest safe assembly point on foot—preferably a public building like a school or community center. Do not wait.

Should I wait for an official evacuation order?

No. If you see smoke, smell burning, or receive a warning from a neighbor or app, begin evacuating immediately. Official orders may be delayed. By the time an alert is issued, your route may already be compromised. “When in doubt, get out.”

What should I do if I’m caught in traffic during a wildfire evacuation?

Stay calm. Keep your windows up and air conditioning on recirculate. Turn on your hazard lights. If you’re stuck, call 911 and report your location. Do not abandon your vehicle unless it’s on fire. If smoke becomes thick, crawl low to breathe cleaner air. Use your whistle to signal for help.

Are there pet-friendly evacuation shelters in San Francisco?

Yes. The SF Animal Care and Control works with the Red Cross to provide pet-friendly shelter options. Always bring your pet’s food, leash, carrier, and medical records. Never leave pets behind. They cannot survive on their own during a fire.

How often should I update my evacuation plan?

Update your plan at least once every six months. Recheck your routes for new construction, road closures, or vegetation growth. Update your emergency kit. Rehearse with your household. Climate conditions change rapidly—your plan must evolve with them.

What if I don’t have a car?

Coordinate with neighbors, community groups, or local nonprofits. Many organizations maintain lists of volunteers with vehicles who can assist during evacuations. Register with SF Notify and your neighborhood association to be included in these networks. Public transit (BART, Muni) can also be part of your plan.

Conclusion

Planning wildfire evacuation routes from San Francisco is not an optional precaution—it is a non-negotiable component of modern urban survival. As climate change accelerates the frequency and intensity of wildfires, the margin for error shrinks. What was once a rare emergency is now a seasonal reality. The difference between life and death often comes down to preparation, knowledge, and decisive action.

This guide has provided you with a comprehensive, actionable roadmap: from assessing your personal risk to practicing evacuation drills, from mapping alternate routes to coordinating with your community. You now understand the critical role of wind patterns, topography, and infrastructure in determining safe passage. You know which tools to use, which resources to keep on hand, and how to adapt when conditions change.

But knowledge alone is not enough. Action is. Begin today. Print your maps. Fill your gas tank. Pack your emergency kit. Talk to your neighbors. Practice your route. Share this guide with your family and friends. The next wildfire will not wait for you to be ready. But if you act now, you will be ready when it comes.

San Francisco’s resilience lies not in its landmarks, but in its people. By taking ownership of your evacuation plan, you become part of a stronger, smarter, and safer city. Your life—and the lives of those around you—depend on it.