Massive Water Leak Exposes El Reno Bitcoin Mining Site Operated Unlawfully for Years
The leak triggered low water pressure and temporary closures as Oklahoma faces drought conditions affecting all 77 counties, officials said.
- El Reno officials announced Tuesday that the city's water system returned to normal after 3.8 million gallons of water leaked from a data center fire hydrant. The incident forced emergency conservation measures and temporary school closures.
- The facility, owned by Athlon BT, allegedly operated illegally despite a 2023 stop-work order. City officials condemned the property, citing multiple code violations including expired building permits and lack of a final certificate of occupancy.
- Oklahoma faces severe drought, with the U.S. Drought Monitor reporting 100 percent of the state affected. State Climatologist Gary McManus described the region as "ground-zero for flash drought," noting the state received only 21 percent of normal rainfall.
- Interim City Manager Ken Brown confirmed that no costs from the leak will be passed to citizens. The city's legal team is preparing to recoup expenses from Athlon BT following the property's condemnation.
- City officials are investigating improvements to detect leaks faster and enhance interdepartmental communication. Oklahoma City Utilities Director Chris Browning stated, "We have a reliable water supply and a resilient system.
11 Articles
11 Articles
City says stop-work order fell through cracks before massive El Reno water leak at Bitcoin facility
El Reno says 3.8 million gallons leaked from a data center that was never supposed to open — and officials admit a 2023 stop-work order fell through the cracks.
Data Center Leak in Oklahoma Releases Three Million Gallons Amid Severe Drought
A data center linked to artificial intelligence (AI) and bitcoin mining operations in El Reno, Oklahoma lost more than three million gallons of water after a private water line failed, according to local news reports. The incident has raised concerns about water-intensive industrial facilities during a period when 100% of Oklahoma is experiencing drought conditions, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. City officials traced the leak to a priva…
Water leak flushes out Bitcoin mining business
Water leak flushes out Bitcoin mining business Over 3 million gallons of water lost from malfunctioning privately-owned waterline and hydrant on site of operation, city files abatement notices for multiple code violations Glen Miller Tue, 09/01/2026 - 12:04 X The water troubles that led to shutoffs for some residents and low water pressure throughout El Reno last week sat on private property where city officials said an unknown bitcoin mining bu…
Massive water leak exposes El Reno Bitcoin mining site operated unlawfully for years
After a recent leak that shook the city of El Reno, city officials say the company operating the Bitcoin mining facility, where the leak was found, was operating unlawfully.
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