Weatherford Ammonia Spill: Residents Evacuated, Dozens Hospitalized
WEATHERFORD, Okla. – A large ammonia spill following a semi-truck crash in Weatherford, Oklahoma, has forced the evacuation of roughly 1,000 residents and sent at least 36 people to hospitals, authorities reported Thursday.
The incident occurred around 10:00 p.m. Wednesday night, near the Holiday Inn Express. Emergency alerts were issued approximately an hour later,triggering a rapid response from local authorities and emergency services. Witnesses described seeing personnel in gas masks conducting door-to-door notifications to alert residents of the danger.
Officials have warned that the air quality in the affected area is unsafe for breathing due to the released ammonia. The evacuation zone encompasses areas north of Davis Ave and between Washington Ave and Lyle Rd. Residents are being directed to the Pioneer Cellular Center (SWOSU basketball Gym) as a safe gathering location.
Local schools in Weatherford have been closed for the day, and Southwest Oklahoma State University has also canceled classes on Thursday as a precautionary measure.
An emergency alert stated: “City of Weatherford partial evacuation due to chemical spill at Holiday Inn express. evacuate north to Davis Ave and from Washington Ave to Lyle Rd. Safety location is Pioneer Cellular Center (SWOSU Basketball Gym). If you are experiencing medical symptoms, call 911, or seek medical personnel located at Ace Hardware.”
Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and work to contain the spill. further updates will be provided as they become available.
