Ammonia Leak in Weatherford, Oklahoma Hotel Parking Lot Sends Dozens to Hospitals: What We Know and What Victims Should Do Next
On November 12, 2025, a major hazardous materials incident unfolded in the parking lot of a Holiday Inn Express in Weatherford, Oklahoma, after an anhydrous ammonia leak from a tanker truck spread a toxic gas cloud across the area. The leak triggered a large-scale emergency response, sent dozens of victims to local hospitals, and raised serious concerns about chemical exposure, public safety, and environmental impact.
Dozens Injured After Anhydrous Ammonia Release
According to Weatherford authorities, the leak began around 10 p.m. Wednesday night, quickly blanketing the hotel parking area in a dense ammonia plume. First responders evacuated victims as the scene became increasingly dangerous.
Key details confirmed by officials include:
45 people hospitalized, including five airlifted to Oklahoma City-area hospitals.
Several victims remain in intensive care, though most are in stable condition.
Dozens more treated at three on-site casualty collection points.
14 officers exposed, with five suffering chemical burns to their airways.
No fatalities reported as of Thursday evening.
Video from the incident showed a thick, fast-moving ammonia cloud making immediate access extremely difficult for emergency crews.
How the Leak Happened
Weatherford Police Chief Angelo Orefice stated the tanker truck driver had parked at the hotel to check in for the night. The leak is believed to be accidental, with investigators examining a potential valve malfunction or faulty seal.
The tanker was carrying roughly 25,000 pounds of anhydrous ammonia, a concentrated fertilizer widely used in agriculture. By Thursday morning, Weatherford Fire Chief Kory Selman confirmed the tanker had stopped leaking.
EPA and Environmental Response
The Environmental Protection Agency responded shortly after 1 a.m. Thursday to monitor air, water, and soil conditions.
The EPA reported:
No ammonia detected in nearby residential air.
Local creek levels remained within safe limits for the ecosystem.
Soil pH measured at 10, expected to naturally neutralize soon.
To control and dilute the vapor, first responders sprayed and flushed the area with approximately 2.4 million gallons of water, which entered drainage systems and a nearby creek. A berm was later constructed to prevent further migration of contaminated water.
Cleanup and remediation are expected to take several days, and the public has been asked to avoid the surrounding area until work is complete.
Company and Agency Statements
The tanker is owned by Airgas Specialty Products. In a statement, Airgas confirmed the ammonia release was contained and crews were coordinating with authorities on cleanup and monitoring efforts:
“Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this accident. We are grateful to the first responders for their swift response.”
The EPA also emphasized its ongoing collaboration with state, local, and tribal authorities to ensure continued public safety.
Health Risks: Why Ammonia Exposure Is Dangerous
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to high levels of ammonia can cause:
Severe irritation to eyes, throat, and lungs
Chemical burns
Respiratory distress
Skin injuries
Because ammonia acts quickly and spreads rapidly, even short-term exposure can lead to serious medical complications—especially for children, older adults, and those with pre-existing respiratory issues.
A shelter-in-place order issued for the surrounding area was lifted Thursday morning once air monitoring confirmed no ongoing threat to residents.
What Victims Should Know
Anyone exposed to anhydrous ammonia—even if symptoms seem mild—should:
Seek immediate medical evaluation
Document symptoms, injuries, and medical visits
Avoid washing clothing at home (contaminated materials should be handled professionally)
Record the location, time, and conditions of exposure
Monitor for delayed respiratory or skin reactions
Victims may later need documentation for insurance claims, medical bills, or other legal matters.
