Update 6: Unified Command shares validated surface water sampling data for Codorus Creek
YORK, Pa. (April 21, 2026) — Unified Command for the York Salvage Yard Fire reports that no oil was detected in Codorus Creek surface water samples collected on March 10, 2026, and that, for substances other than oil, validated lab results showed no significant differences between upstream and downstream conditions. The public can view the sampling data dashboard in the water sampling section of the response StoryMap: https://arcg.is/0z1XeS0.
A brief, localized increase in oil was found just downstream of the site on March 6, 2026, after heavy overnight rain affected containment booms and underflow dams. Crews repaired the containment that same day. Results from March 6 showed no meaningful difference in oil levels upstream of the site compared with farther downstream beyond the containment boom at the Philadelphia Street Bridge.
The validated surface water samples helped responders confirm baseline creek conditions and assess the success of containment and cleanup work.
Teams collected surface water from four locations on the main branch of the Codorus:
- Immediately upstream and immediately downstream of where the creek meets the unnamed tributary near the site,
- About 1.5 miles upstream near the PA‑182/Indian Rock Dam Road overpass, and
- About 1.8 miles downstream near the Philadelphia Street Bridge.
Samples were analyzed for oil and petroleum hydrocarbons, metals, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), and VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Unified Command is completing cleanup and removal activities and has begun demobilizing response personnel and equipment from the area. Updates for other final or validated data, as well as a recap of recent activities, will be shared with the public on the response StoryMap.
York Salvage Yard Fire 2026 Unified Command