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An ammonia leak has prompted evacuations in Weatherford early this morning.
A tanker trailer leaked anhydrous ammonia in a hotel parking lot, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, causing respiratory distress in the area and leading to the hospitalization of 36 individuals. Eleven of these patients were transferred to other hospitals for further treatment.
Approximately 500 to 600 people sought shelter at the Pioneer Event Center at Southwestern Oklahoma State University. The Weatherford Fire Department reported that the leak took place at the Holiday Inn Express near East Main Street and Cypress Drive. As a precaution, authorities closed the east and westbound exits of Interstate 40 and issued an emergency alert advising residents in certain areas to shelter in place.
The lack of wind has slowed efforts to dissipate the gas, although the tanker is no longer leaking. Several nursing homes were evacuated, and local schools, including Weatherford High School and Southwestern Oklahoma State University, were closed for the day.
Authorities are monitoring air quality and have deployed hazmat teams and the Oklahoma National Guard to assist with the response. Anhydrous ammonia is commonly used as a fertilizer and can cause burns in its gas or liquid form.
This is a developing story and updates will follow as more information becomes available.