Hundreds fled their homes and dozens were hospitalized, including several first responders, after a hazardous gas cloud spread through Weatherford overnight.

A catastrophic leak of anhydrous ammonia from a tanker truck sent a toxic cloud over this Oklahoma city overnight, triggering a massive emergency response that forced hundreds of residents to evacuate and sent dozens to area hospitals, authorities reported Thursday.

The leak, which began late Wednesday, prompted firefighters in gas masks to go door-to-door, waking residents and urging them to flee immediately. A shelter-in-place order was lifted Thursday morning after air quality improved.

Dozens Hospitalized, First Responders Injured

The human cost of the leak became clear throughout Thursday. Police confirmed that 34 people were treated at a local hospital, while 11 others were transported to medical facilities in Oklahoma City. Several victims remained in intensive care, though most were reported in stable condition by evening.

The incident also took a toll on first responders. Five police officers suffered chemical burns to their airways after being exposed to the poisonous gas while securing the area.

Mass Disruption and Evacuations

The emergency caused widespread disruption across the city of 12,000. Between 500 and 600 residents were forced to seek shelter in the early hours. Nursing homes were partially evacuated, and all city schools were closed for the day as a precaution.

The source of the disaster was a tanker truck carrying 25,000 pounds (11,340 kg) of anhydrous ammonia. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a failed gasket on the truck led to the release. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into the incident.

A Terrifying Night for Residents

Witnesses described the frightening moment the leak began. An oil field worker staying at a hotel near the truck reported hearing a "faint pop" shortly before a powerful, choking odor filled the hallways.

"We rushed outside, but you could see the fumes spreading everywhere," he said.

A Dangerous and Deadly Chemical

Anhydrous ammonia, a common agricultural fertilizer, is a colorless gas that can cause severe chemical burns, respiratory failure, and death in high concentrations. This incident echoes recent similar events, including a leak in Mississippi last week and a deadly 2022 spill in Illinois that killed five people.

Ongoing Response and Cleanup

While the immediate danger has passed, Police stated that cleanup operations could last several days. The EPA reported that air quality monitoring showed no lingering ammonia in residential areas and that creek water pH levels were normal. Any ammonia that reached the soil is expected to neutralize naturally.

Authorities confirmed the tanker has stopped leaking and that a multi-agency response, including hazmat teams, the Oklahoma National Guard, and state and federal agencies, is managing the aftermath. (ILKHA)