A DEADLY chemical leak in a US town has forced the mass evacuation of hundreds of residents.
Schools and businesses have also had to be shuttered amid health fears due to the toxic air.
Dangerous ammonia spewed into the air after a semi-truck crashed and spilled the dangerous chemical.
Around 1,000 local residents were forced to evacuate from their homes in Oklahoma.
The semi-truck crashed in Weatherford, west of Oklahoma City, at about 10 pm on Wednesday, authorities said.
Emergency alerts for immediate evacuations were issued some 30 minutes later, reported 9 News.
Witnesses said that people donned gas masks, and went door-to-door to wake residents.
Nearly 40 people were hospitalized after being exposed to the chemical.
Schools in Weatherford were canceled.
Southwest Oklahoma State University has also canceled its classes for today as a precaution.
Weatherford Police Chief Angelo Orefice warned that the air was too toxic to breathe.
In a statement, cops said that “due to an accidental chemical release, the Weatherford Emergency Department is requesting all residents East of Washington St, South of Davis Ave, North of Main St to shelter in place until further notice.
“Residents in this area are encouraged to turn off their AC/heating systems to prevent the chemicals from entering their home.
“Businesses in this area should remain closed.
“Weatherford Public Schools has closed down all campuses today.”
The YMCA is also shut.
An official emergency alert said, “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.”
Residents have been advised to discard any open, unpackaged, or oddly smelling food.
Emergency crews remain at the scene, and have yet to declare the area clear of ammonia.
