January 10, 2014

Manchin Statement on Federal Response to Water Contamination

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today released the following statement after Governor Tomblin and President Obama issued a federal disaster declaration for West Virginia as a result of a chemical spill that may have contaminated the tap water for nine counties: Kanawha, Boone, Logan, Lincoln, Putnam, Jackson, Roane, Clay and Cabell.

“Today I have spoken with the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, the regional administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Administration and Governor Tomblin to ensure that West Virginians receive every possible resource from the federal government while we work to resolve this issue. They have informed me that the first water trucks are anticipated to arrive this afternoon and that they will monitor and work to resolve the issue immediately.

“West Virginia American Water estimates that thousands of miles of main line in their water distribution system have been affected, and it could take several days to return to normal. Until the situation is resolved, I urge all West Virginians to not drink, boil, wash, clean, bathe or give to pets your water. Please only use water for sanitation and fire protection. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and do everything we can to provide water and the resources necessary to help all those who are affected.

“I know hundreds of thousands of West Virginians are in need at this time, and I want you to know that I am doing everything in my power to help you get the resources and assistance you need as quickly as possible. Please remember to lend a helping hand to your neighbors at this challenging time. As always, you can call any of my office numbers for assistance.”

To contact Senator Manchin’s office, please call:

Charleston office: 304-342-5855 or 855-275-5737 (toll-free)
Morgantown office: 304-284-8663
Martinsburg office: 304-264-4626
Washington office: 202-224-3954

To follow the most updated information, please visit my website, Facebook page or follow me on Twitter @Sen_JoeManchin.

For immediate assistance, please contact your local emergency management office to determine where water distribution points are located in your county.

Boone County –  304 369-9913

Cabell County – 304 743-5391

Clay County – 304 587-2019

Jackson County – 304 373-2208 or 304 372-2000

Kanawha County – 304 744-6843

Lincoln County – 304 824-3443

Logan County – 304 752-7662 or 304 752-8817

Putnam County – 304 586-0246

Roane County – 304 927-0911

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