Ammonia Gas Leak in Oklahoma Hospitalizes Dozens, Forces Evacuations/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ An ammonia gas leak from a tanker truck in Weatherford, Oklahoma, sickened dozens and forced mass evacuations overnight. Hundreds were displaced, several people hospitalized, and schools and nursing homes were shut down. Authorities believe a mechanical failure caused the leak.
Ammonia Gas Leak Oklahoma Quick Looks
- Dozens hospitalized after a hazardous ammonia gas release in Weatherford.
- 500–600 people evacuated; shelter-in-place order later lifted.
- Four patients in critical condition following exposure.
- Leak stemmed from a parked tanker truck near a hotel.
- Anhydrous ammonia is a dangerous chemical used in agriculture.
- Hazmat crews and National Guard deployed to manage the incident.
- Schools and nursing homes shut down due to safety concerns.
- Airgas confirmed ownership of the leaking tanker and is cooperating.
Ammonia Gas Leak in Oklahoma Hospitalizes Dozens, Forces Evacuations
Deep Look
WEATHERFORD, Okla. — A significant chemical spill caused by a leaking tanker truck forced hundreds of evacuations and sent dozens to hospitals late Wednesday in Weatherford, Oklahoma.
The tanker, carrying anhydrous ammonia, began leaking around 10 p.m. in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn Express. Emergency responders arrived quickly as the colorless but highly irritating gas began spreading. Nearby residents and hotel guests reported difficulty breathing, burning sensations, and nausea.
Police Chief Angelo Orefice stated that four people are in critical condition, with dozens more receiving treatment for respiratory distress. While most were treated at local facilities, several were transferred to regional hospitals for advanced care.
An estimated 500–600 people were evacuated overnight. Emergency shelters were set up to house those displaced, and a shelter-in-place order was issued before being lifted Thursday morning. Local schools and several nursing homes were closed, adding to the disruption.
The truck driver had reportedly parked the vehicle for the night and checked into the hotel, unaware of the leak. Officials believe a mechanical failure, possibly involving a valve or seal, was the root cause.
“We’ve got a lot of it diluted now,” said Orefice. “We’re working closely with environmental teams, and cleanup could take days.”
The Oklahoma National Guard, hazmat units, and environmental officials converged on the scene. While the leak has stopped, air quality is being actively monitored to ensure lingering vapors do not pose continued health risks.
Residents shared alarming accounts of being woken by emergency responders in gas masks.
“It felt like a dream,” said evacuee Krystal Blackwell. “I grabbed what I could and ran. I’m still sitting in my car in pajamas.”
The tanker belonged to Airgas, an industrial gas supplier based in Radnor, Pennsylvania. In a statement Thursday, the company confirmed it was working closely with local authorities.
“Anhydrous ammonia warrants cautious handling and management,” the company said. “We urge everyone to follow official safety instructions.”
Anhydrous ammonia is commonly used in farming to provide nitrogen for crops like wheat and corn. However, in gas or liquid form, it can burn skin, damage lungs, and cause severe injuries or death. Exposure can be especially harmful in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas.
This incident follows a similar emergency in Yazoo City, Mississippi, just a week prior, when a leak caused by an explosion at a chemical plant prompted evacuations and sent a yellow vapor cloud above the facility.
The city of Weatherford, with a population of about 12,000, lies roughly 70 miles west of Oklahoma City. Residents remain on high alert as cleanup efforts continue.
Officials emphasized that the situation is under control, but stressed the importance of vigilance in the coming days. Any residents experiencing chest tightness, throat irritation, or shortness of breath are urged to seek medical care immediately.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to confirm the exact mechanical failure and assess whether negligence or safety violations contributed to the leak. No fatalities have been reported.
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