Mandatory Water Conservation Order Impacts 42,000 Customers in Cumberland County, PA
Cumberland County, PA – A mandatory water conservation order is in effect for approximately 42,000 Pennsylvania American Water customers in parts of Cumberland and York Counties, as of Saturday, February 21, 2026. The order stems from an “unexpected incident” at the West Shore Water Treatment Plant, prompting officials to question residents to limit water leverage to essential purposes only.
Affected Areas
The following townships and boroughs are impacted by the water conservation order:
- Silver Spring Township
- Hampden Township
- Lower Allen Township
- Lemoyne Borough
- Wormleysburg Borough
- East Pennsboro Township
- New Cumberland Borough
- Fairview Township
- Shiremanstown Borough
- Camp Hill Borough
- Newberry Township
Conservation Measures
Customers are urged to reduce water usage by 10-15%, focusing on essential needs. Pennsylvania American Water is requesting residents to temporarily limit water use to “essential purposes only.”
Response to the Incident
Pennsylvania American Water has increased production at its Silver Spring Water Treatment Plant, which also serves the Mechanicsburg water system, to assist mitigate the impact. The company is also utilizing emergency interconnections with neighboring water systems. Customers are being notified through the company’s automated emergency notification system and via email. Landlords are asked to inform tenants about the mandatory conservation order.
What Caused the Incident?
The incident affecting the West Shore Water Treatment Plant involves a potential contaminant that impacted the water source. Further details regarding the nature of the contaminant have not yet been released.
When Will the Order Be Lifted?
Customers will be notified when the conservation order is lifted, according to a press release from Pennsylvania American Water. Updates will be provided through the automated emergency notification system.
For more information, visit the Pennsylvania American Water alerts website.