Ammonia leak in Oklahoma leaves dozens hospitalized, forces hundreds to evacuate

A chemical spill left dozens hospitalized and forced hundreds to evacuate from a western Oklahoma city on Wednesday night, according to local authorities and the CBS affiliate station KWTV. 

The incident occurred around 10 p.m. local time in Weatherford, Oklahoma, where a semi-truck began leaking ammonia, which is toxic, KWTV reported, citing officials. 

Southwest Oklahoma State University also confirmed that the leak involved “anhydrous ammonia” in a statement announcing that in-person classes would be canceled Thursday. 

“First responders on scene have recommended that all students in SWOSU on-campus housing shelter in place due to the fumes. Students in residence halls should remain indoors, keep windows and doors closed,” the university said.

Weatherford Public Schools announced closures throughout the district as well.

A public safety notice issued by police Thursday morning asked residents of certain Weatherford neighborhoods to shelter in place until further notice “due to an accidental chemical release.”

“Residents in this area are encouraged to turn off their AC/Heating systems to prevent the chemicals from entering their home,” the notice said. “Businesses in this area should remain closed.”

Earlier, an emergency alert sent out within an hour of the chemical spill said a “partial evacuation” was underway because of a chemical spill at at a Holiday Inn Express in the area, KWTV reported.

“If you are having medical symptoms, call 911, or medical personnel located at Ace Hardware,” the alert said.

Ammonia is a clear, foul-smelling gas or liquid that occurs naturally but is also commonly used in fertilizers and pharmaceutical products, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Exposure to normal amounts of ammonia do not harm humans, although higher levels can hurt the eyes, skin, throat and lungs, potentially causing coughing and burns, the health agency says.