Is Mcloud, OK Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D, with 108 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
48/100
waterverge.com Mcloud, OK — Water Quality Report
Mcloud's drinking water received a grade of D (48 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,079 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 7.4 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 2924 violations on record, including 14 health-based violations. 108 remain unresolved.
What to know about Mcloud's water
Mcloud ranks #264 out of 358 cities in Oklahoma for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Mcloud relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Mcloud may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 1168 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Mcloud, OK water safe to drink?
Mcloud's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D (48/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 3,079 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Mcloud
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Mcloud's water quality assessment. Grade: D (48/100).
Contaminants: Dalapon, Diquat, Endothall.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Dalapon, Diquat, Glyphosate.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3219). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-778). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Mcloud's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Violation history
Mcloud's water system has 2,924 total violations on record, including 14 health-based violations. 108 remain unresolved. 1168 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Pottawatomie County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1974. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include North Canadian River Near Harrah, Wes Watkins Reservoir Near Mcloud, Shawnee Reservoir At Shawnee.
Where does Mcloud's water come from?
Mcloud's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 3,079 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include North Canadian River Near Harrah (river), Wes Watkins Reservoir Near Mcloud (lake), Shawnee Reservoir At Shawnee (lake).
What Mcloud residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Mcloud's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Mcloud's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Mcloud
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Mcloud, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
OLDCASTLE LAWN & GARDEN HARRAH, OK73045 | — | — | 4.5 mi |
GEORG FISCHER CENTRAL PLASTICS LLC SHAWNEE, OK74804 | — | — | 9.6 mi |
VAULT PRESSURE CONTROL - SHAWNEE FACILITY SHAWNEE, OK74804 | — | — | 9.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtPottawatomie County is currently in D2 (severe drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
Pottawatomie County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1974. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Mcloud's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 7.4 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Mcloud compares by contaminant
Explore where Mcloud ranks among all Oklahoma cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Mcloud's water comes from
Mcloud's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 3,079 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Mcloud
Mcloud is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Mcloud
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCLOUD | OK2006301 | 2,939 | GW |
| PINE COUNTRY LIVING MHP | OK2006311 | 100 | GW |
| TIMBER CREEK MHP EAST & WEST | OK2006367 | 40 | GW |
How Mcloud compares
Full Oklahoma rankings →Mcloud's score of 48/100 is on par with the average of 45/100 among major Oklahoma cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Oklahoma rankings →About Mcloud, OK
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Mcloud's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Pottawatomie
Frequently asked questions
Is Mcloud, OK tap water safe to drink?
Mcloud's water quality earned a grade of D (48/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #264 out of 358 cities tested in Oklahoma.
What contaminants are in Mcloud's water?
Lead was measured at 7.4 ppb (90th percentile). 2924 violations are on record.
How is Mcloud's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Mcloud?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Mcloud's water come from?
Mcloud's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 3,079 residents.
What health violations has Mcloud's water system had?
Mcloud has 14 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 108 violations remain unresolved.
Is Mcloud's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Mcloud uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 2924 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Mcloud's water compare to other cities?
Mcloud ranks #264 out of 358 cities in Oklahoma (better than 26% of state cities) and #13525 out of 15744 cities nationally (14th percentile). The grade of D reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.