WEATHERFORD, Okla. –
About 1,000 residents are being evacuated from their homes in Weatherford, just west of Oklahoma City, after a semi-truck crashed and spilled a toxic chemical.
The crash happened around 10 p.m. Wednesday, authorities said, and emergency alerts began going out about an hour later. Witnesses reported seeing people wearing gas masks going door to door to wake residents.
Police warned that the air in the area is unsafe to breathe. Officials said at least 36 people have been hospitalized as a result of exposure.
Schools in Weatherford were canceled, and Southwest Oklahoma State University also canceled classes Thursday.
An emergency alert advised: “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 having medical symptoms, call 911, or medical personnel located at Ace Hardware.”
