York Salvage Yard Fire: Codorus Creek Water Tests Clear

YORK, Pa. — Unified Command reported validated water sampling data from Codorus Creek showing no oil detected in samples collected March 10, 2026, following the York Salvage Yard Fire. Lab results for other substances showed no significant differences between upstream and downstream conditions.

A brief increase in oil appeared just downstream of the salvage yard on March 6 after heavy overnight rain compromised containment booms and underflow dams. Crews repaired the containment the same day. Testing showed no meaningful difference in oil levels upstream compared with downstream at the Philadelphia Street Bridge.

Responders collected surface water from four locations on the main Codorus Creek branch: immediately upstream and downstream where the creek meets an 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 in downtown York.

Samples underwent analysis for oil and petroleum hydrocarbons, metals, PFAS and volatile organic compounds.

Unified Command has begun removing response personnel and equipment from the area. Additional validated data and activity updates will appear on the response StoryMap.