Local disaster declared in Copperas Cove due to water main breaks

COPPERAS COVE, Texas (KXXV) — The Copperas Cove ISD will be closed and classes cancelled, as the community continues to deal with the effects from water main breaks.

In a statement emailed to 25News, the district said, “Due to the uncertainty surrounding necessary repair times on the water main break in our community which caused a Stage 4C restriction across Copperas Cove, and out of compassion to parents who need to make plans for childcare and work, Copperas Cove ISD will be closed and classes canceled on Tuesday, August 17, 2026 out of an abundance of caution.

“Copperas Cove ISD remains in constant communication with the City of Copperas Cove regarding the ongoing repairs. As soon as we are able to make a decision regarding school on Wednesday, our district will notify parents and staff directly.”

The City declared a local disaster Monday following critical water infrastructure failures that left the entire municipal water system compromised. Mayor Dan D. Yancey issued both a Declaration of Local Disaster and an Order for Stage 4C Implementation Monday at 1:00 p.m., after the city experienced a water main break and water main valve break Sunday. While city crews completed repairs by early Monday morning, the water main valve break disrupted service to the entire water distribution system, and the city’s water storage system is failing to recharge due to continued usage throughout the system.

To help those without water, a water refill station is set up at the Copperas Public Library, 501 S. Main St., until midnight Monday. You must bring your own clean, one gallon jugs and no large containers will be filled.

A boil water warning is also in effect until the water system’s pressure has been restored in the orange, red and green locations on this map. If you’re unsure of your location, you’re advised to boil your water just in case.

City of Copperas Cove, Texas

The water emergency forced Copperas Cove Independent School District to implement an early dismissal schedule across all 11 campuses Monday due to inadequate water pressure and supply at multiple facilities. Students were dismissed in staggered times ranging from 2:30 p.m. for junior high campuses to 3:15 p.m. for Mae Stevens ELA, with district transportation dispatched to pick up registered bus riders while staff remained on campus to ensure all students got home safely. The Stage 4C water restrictions represent the most severe conservation measures in the city’s emergency response protocol, with violations carrying Class C Misdemeanor citations punishable by fines ranging from $100 to $2,000.

City officials anticipate the restrictions will remain in effect for approximately 24 hours while the water system fully recharges, emphasizing that community cooperation is critical during this period. The city will provide notification when Stage 4C restrictions are rescinded, with updates posted on the municipal website at www.copperascovetx.gov.

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