CHESTER, Texas — Mayor Robert E. Poynter declared a local state of disaster following the catastrophic failure of Chester's water system, leaving dozens of families without access to clean drinking water.

The emergency declaration affects public health and safety as residents lack access to sanitation and basic hygiene.

The water system failure has forced families to seek alternative water sources.

"Our community is facing a crisis. Families are boiling rainwater, relying on bottled water donations, and struggling to maintain basic sanitation," Poynter said. "We are calling on state and federal partners to help us restore safe water access immediately," an official said in a press release.

The disaster declaration activates emergency protocols and enables the town to request assistance

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