Mifflin County issues 'Do Not Drink' notice after water source failure

Backup water source failed overnight after tractor-trailer crash into reservoir

Apr. 18, 2026 at 5:11pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, depicting a large, fog-shrouded reservoir surrounded by rolling hills. The reservoir is the central focus, but its scale is dwarfed by the overwhelming presence of the natural environment, conveying a sense of the sublime power of nature.The tranquil Laurel Creek Reservoir, now the focus of a water crisis, stands as a testament to the power and fragility of local water infrastructure.Lewistown Today

The Mifflin County Municipal Authority has issued a 'do not drink' advisory for its water customers after a tractor-trailer crashed into the Laurel Creek Reservoir, forcing the authority to rely on alternate water sources. However, one of the backup sources also failed due to an electrical transformer surge, leading the authority to discontinue using the reservoir water and seek alternate drinking water supplies.

Why it matters

The 'do not drink' notice affects thousands of residents and businesses served by the Mifflin County Municipal Authority, potentially disrupting daily life and operations. The incident highlights the vulnerability of local water infrastructure to accidents and equipment failures, raising concerns about emergency preparedness and the need for redundant water sources.

The details

According to the water authority, a tractor-trailer crashed into the Laurel Creek Reservoir in Armagh Township, forcing the authority to rely on alternate water sources. However, one of the backup sources then failed due to an electrical transformer surge, leaving the authority unable to meet customer demand without drawing from the compromised reservoir. As a result, the authority issued a 'do not drink' advisory and is working with state agencies to expedite water quality testing and restore a safe water supply.

  • On Saturday morning, the Mifflin County Municipal Authority issued the 'do not drink' advisory.
  • The tractor-trailer crashed into the Laurel Creek Reservoir on an unspecified date prior to the advisory.
  • The backup water source failure occurred overnight, prior to the advisory being issued.

The players

Mifflin County Municipal Authority

The public water utility serving customers in several municipalities in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania.

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

The state agency working with the water authority to monitor the situation and expedite water quality testing.

Mifflin County Emergency Management Agency

The local emergency management team assisting the water authority in responding to the incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Mifflin County Municipal Authority and state agencies are working to expedite water quality testing on the Laurel Creek Reservoir, with results expected within the next 48 hours. In the meantime, the authority is securing alternate drinking water sources for customers.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of robust and redundant water infrastructure, as well as the need for effective emergency response plans to ensure the continued delivery of safe drinking water to communities. The 'do not drink' advisory underscores the potential disruptions that can occur when a primary water source is compromised, and the challenges faced by local authorities in maintaining reliable water supplies.