Executive Summary
- An ammonia leak from a tanker trailer in Weatherford, Oklahoma, has led to the hospitalization of 36 people.
- Approximately 500 residents were evacuated from the area late Wednesday night as a safety precaution.
- The incident prompted the closure of local I-40 exits, a shelter-in-place order for some areas, and the cancellation of classes at Weatherford High School.
An ammonia leak from a tanker trailer in Weatherford, Oklahoma, late Wednesday night resulted in the hospitalization of 36 people and the evacuation of hundreds of residents, according to local authorities. The incident prompted a significant emergency response, including road closures and the cancellation of school for the day.
Incident Details and Emergency Response
The Weatherford Fire Department reported that the leak occurred around 10 p.m. in the parking lot of a hotel near East Main Street and Cypress Drive. In response, approximately 500 people were evacuated from the surrounding area and directed to the Pioneer Event Center at Southwestern Oklahoma State University for shelter.
Weatherford Emergency Management issued an alert instructing residents in a designated zone to shelter in place. Authorities also closed the east and westbound exits of Interstate 40 as a precautionary measure. Citing the ongoing situation, Weatherford High School announced via Facebook that classes would be canceled for Thursday.
Ongoing Situation
Emergency crews remain at the scene to manage the chemical leak and ensure the safety of the area. Officials have advised evacuated residents to stay away until further notice. The situation is currently under investigation by local authorities.