West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin issued a state of emergency Thursday evening for nine counties after a utility said that its water supply was contaminated.

White House followed with an emergency declaration of its own, allowing the state to receive federal help with the water emergency.

"West Virginians in the affected service areas are urged NOT to use tap water for drinking, cooking, washing or bathing," Tomblin said. "Right now, our priorities are our hospitals, nursing homes and schools."

Efforts are under way to provide alternative sources.