Obama declares federal disaster in Boston area, allowing more aid in water main break

Obama declares disaster in Mass. water main break

BOSTON — President Obama has signed an emergency disaster declaration offering federal help as Massachusetts grapples with the effects of a major water main break.

The break led Gov. Deval (deh-VAHL’) Patrick to issue a boil order for about 2 million people in the Boston area.

Obama’s declaration authorizes the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency to coordinate disaster relief efforts with the state to help ease any hardships.

The 10-foot wide pipe has been repaired, but health officials say testing must be finished before tap water in Boston and about 30 other communities is approved for drinking.