The City of Tonkawa remains under a Civil Emergency due to severe water supply and pressure issues. Since Friday, February 21, 2025, our water system has been critically strained due to record-breaking freezing temperatures, line breaks, and equipment failures. Despite extensive repairs and strategic conservation efforts, our system was unable to stabilize.
To protect our infrastructure and prevent a total system failure, we have suspended standpipes and tower operations to allow our basins to recover. This necessary action has resulted in low to no water pressure throughout Tonkawa.
PROJECTED RECOVERY TIMELINE
Our best-case scenario estimates system recovery by Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Incoming data as of Sunday evening indicates we are making great progress and are on schedule with that timeline.
BOIL ORDER IN EFFECT
ALL water from the Tonkawa system must be boiled before drinking, cooking, or personal hygiene. See previous city updates for detailed guidance. The boil order will remain in effect, even after the water has been restored until proper testing on our system can be completed. After the tests show there is no concern with the water samples, the Boil Order will be lifted.
PUBLIC SAFETY MEASURES
Tonkawa Public Schools Closed until at least Wednesday due to water supply and fire suppression concerns.
Water-dependent businesses must Close (restaurants, shower stations, laundromats, etc.).
Emergency Plans in Place for long-term care facilities to ensure residents’/patients’ safety.
POTABLE WATER DISTRIBUTION SITES
Potable Water Trailers are available on E. Grand Avenue and on S. 6th Street.
Complimentary Bottled Water is available at Venture Foods, with more arriving tomorrow morning. We will advise bottled water distribution sites upon their arrival.
Thank You, Tonkawa! The support from our community has been incredible—your donations, patience, and cooperation mean everything. Special thanks to Oklahoma DEQ, State Emergency Management, and Pawnee & Payne County Emergency Management for their assistance.
For questions, assistance, to request resources, or to report water issues (leaks, breaks, etc.), contact the Tonkawa City Offices (M-F, 8 AM – 5 PM). Emergency Services & 911 remain fully operational.
Stay updated via:
City of Tonkawa Facebook Page
Tonkawa Emergency Management Page
Nixle Alerts (Text the word TONKAWA to phone number 888777)
City of Tonkawa Website
We appreciate your continued efforts and support of your neighbors during this challenging time. We are in this together.
