A leaking tanker truck spewed dangerous gas in a hotel parking lot in Weatherford, Oklahoma, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents and sending dozens to hospitals. Local authorities reported that emergency workers, wearing gas masks, evacuated residents early Thursday morning due to exposure to anhydrous ammonia fumes.
Local hospitals received approximately 30 patients, with four reported in critical condition, although officials have not disclosed the total number or current status of those affected.
The incident began late Wednesday night when the tanker began leaking ammonia gas, which caused respiratory distress among nearby residents. An evacuation shelter was set up, housing between 500 to 600 people, while others were instructed to remain indoors for safety.
Krystal Blackwell, a local resident, described the panic of the situation, saying, “It was a little crazy to wake up to. I really thought it was a kind of dream.”
Authorities stated that the driver parked the tanker behind a Holiday Inn for the night, where it experienced mechanical failure leading to the leak. Anhydrous ammonia, commonly used in agriculture, poses serious health risks, including respiratory issues and skin burns, especially at high concentrations.
Efforts to contain the spill and monitor air quality are ongoing, with environmental officials assisting in the cleanup. Local gas distributor Airgas emphasized the importance of cautious handling of such materials and advised residents to comply with safety instructions from local authorities.
This incident comes shortly after a similar ammonia leak in Mississippi, highlighting the dangers associated with industrial chemicals. Cleanup in Weatherford is expected to take several days, as authorities continue to assess the situation.
