Is Wichita Falls, TX Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper and NDMA were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
41.5/100
waterverge.com Wichita Falls, TX — Water Quality Report
Wichita Falls's drinking water received a grade of F (41.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 34 water systems serve approximately 118,265 residents using surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 4 PFAS compounds in the water supply.
The system has 974 violations on record, including 823 health-based violations. 115 remain unresolved.
What to know about Wichita Falls's water
Wichita Falls ranks #978 out of 1067 cities in Texas for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.97 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
The system has seen 118 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Wichita Falls, TX water safe to drink?
Wichita Falls's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (41.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 34 water systems serve approximately 118,265 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Wichita Falls
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Wichita Falls's water quality assessment. Grade: F (41.5/100).
6 health-based. Contaminants: TTHM, Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Chlorite.
12 health-based. Contaminants: TTHM, Chlorine, Consumer Confidence Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-1606). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Wichita Falls's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 4 PFAS compounds in Wichita Falls's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Wichita Falls's water system has 974 total violations on record, including 823 health-based violations. 115 remain unresolved. 118 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Wichita County has experienced 1 federally declared disaster since 2005. 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 Wichita Rv At Wichita Falls, Holliday Ck At Wichita Falls, Lk Arrowhead Nr Henrietta.
Where does Wichita Falls's water come from?
Wichita Falls's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 34 water systems serving approximately 118,265 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Wichita Rv At Wichita Falls (river), Holliday Ck At Wichita Falls (river), Lk Arrowhead Nr Henrietta (lake).
What Wichita Falls residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Wichita Falls'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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Wichita Falls
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Wichita Falls, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 516 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
UNITED ELECTRIC CO LP WICHITA FALLS, TX76301 | Copper | 500 | 2.6 mi |
VITRO FLAT GLASS LLC WORKS 4 WICHITA FALLS, TX76305 | Zinc compounds | 11 | 6.5 mi |
HOWMET CASTINGS & SERVICES INC WICHITA FALLS, TX76305 | Nickel | 5 | 5.3 mi |
P&WC COMPONENT REPAIRS (WICHITA FALLS) WICHITA FALLS, TX76310 | — | — | 5.0 mi |
TRC RECREATION LP WICHITA FALLS, TX76306 | — | — | 1.6 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtArcher County is currently in D1 (moderate 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
Wichita County has experienced 1 federally declared disaster since 2005. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Wichita Falls'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. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.37 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | 48.500 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | 0.015 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | 0.004 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | 0.006 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Wichita Falls compares by contaminant
Explore where Wichita Falls ranks among all Texas cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Wichita Falls's water comes from
Wichita Falls's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 118,265 people through 34 water systems.
Water bodies near Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls is located near 3 notable water bodies. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving Wichita Falls
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| CITY OF WICHITA FALLS | TX2430001 | 102,316 | SW |
| DEAN DALE SUD | TX0390019 | 2,492 | SWP |
| RRA PRESTON SHORES WATER SYSTEM | TX0910037 | 2,277 | SW |
| RRA ARROWHEAD LAKE LOTS | TX0390021 | 1,770 | SWP |
| ARCHER COUNTY MUD 1 | TX0050014 | 1,330 | SWP |
| CITY OF LAKESIDE CITY | TX0050015 | 1,091 | SWP |
| FRIBERG-COOPER WSC | TX2430008 | 981 | SWP |
| RRA LOCKETT WATER SYSTEM | TX2440008 | 705 | GWP |
| RRA TELL CEE VEE WS | TX0380013 | 534 | SWP |
| RRA HOWARDWICK | TX0650004 | 370 | GW |
| RRA ESTELLINE TURKEY | TX0960001 | 360 | SWP |
| RRA FOARD COUNTY WATER SYSTEM | TX0780014 | 318 | SWP |
| RRA NORTHEAST CHILDRESS | TX0380014 | 316 | SWP |
| RRA GUTHRIE DUMONT WATER SYSTEM | TX1350001 | 291 | GW |
| RRA DODSON WATER SYSTEM | TX0440018 | 286 | GW |
| RRA NORTHEAST QUANAH WATER SYSTEM | TX0990004 | 275 | SWP |
| RRA TRUSCOTT GILLILAND WATER SYSTEM | TX1380006 | 243 | SWP |
| RRA HINDS WILDCAT WATER SYSTEM | TX2440005 | 228 | GWP |
| RRA SAMNORWOOD WATER SYSTEM | TX0440016 | 222 | GW |
| RRA GREENBELT LAKE LOTS | TX0650014 | 222 | SWP |
| RRA CAREY NORTHFIELD WS | TX0380015 | 183 | SWP |
| RRA RINGGOLD | TX1690005 | 183 | GW |
| RRA FARMERS VALLEY WATER SYSTEM | TX2440007 | 156 | SWP |
| RRA BOX COMMUNITY WATER SYSTEM | TX2440006 | 144 | GWP |
| RRA MEDICINE MOUND WATER SYSTEM | TX0990013 | 135 | SWP |
| RRA GARDEN VALLEY WS | TX0380017 | 125 | SWP |
| RRA SOUTHWEST QUANAH WATER SYSTEM | TX0990044 | 123 | SWP |
| RRA KIRKLAND LAZARE WS | TX0380012 | 120 | SWP |
| RRA GOODLETT WATER SYSTEM | TX0990012 | 105 | SWP |
| CHARLIE WSC | TX0390016 | 80 | SWP |
| RRA CLUB LAKE WATER SYSTEM | TX0960019 | 78 | SWP |
| RRA NEW GOODLETT WATER SYSTEM | TX0990003 | 78 | SWP |
| RRA SAIED WS | TX0380019 | 68 | SWP |
| RRA NEWLIN WATER SYSTEM | TX0960016 | 60 | SWP |
How Wichita Falls compares
Full Texas rankings →Wichita Falls's score of 41.5/100 is on par with the average of 46/100 among major Texas cities. It outscores 6 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Texas rankings →About Wichita Falls, TX
Wikipedia →Wichita Falls is a city in and the county seat of Wichita County, Texas, United States. It is the principal city of the Wichita Falls metropolitan statistical area, which encompasses all of Archer, Clay, and Wichita Counties. According to the 2020 census, it had a population of 102,316, making it the 43rd-most populous city in Texas. Wichita Falls is home to Midwestern State University, enrolling more than 5,500 students.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Wichita Falls's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Wichita
Frequently asked questions
Is Wichita Falls, TX tap water safe to drink?
Wichita Falls's water quality earned a grade of F (41.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #978 out of 1067 cities tested in Texas.
What contaminants are in Wichita Falls's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 4 PFAS compounds were detected. 974 violations are on record.
How is Wichita Falls'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 Wichita Falls?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Wichita Falls's water come from?
Wichita Falls's water is sourced from Surface water. The city has 34 water systems serving approximately 118,265 residents.
What health violations has Wichita Falls's water system had?
Wichita Falls has 823 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 115 violations remain unresolved.
Why does Wichita Falls have so many PFAS compounds in its water?
4 different PFAS "forever chemical" compounds were detected in Wichita Falls's water supply during UCMR 5 testing. PFAS contamination often originates from proximity to military installations (AFFF firefighting foam), airports, industrial manufacturing sites, or wastewater treatment facilities. While detected, current levels are within EPA limits. An activated carbon filter can further reduce exposure.
How does Wichita Falls's water compare to other cities?
Wichita Falls ranks #978 out of 1067 cities in Texas (better than 8% of state cities) and #14973 out of 15744 cities nationally (5th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.