US: Authorities responding to explosion, fire at gas plant in Medford, Okla., as of late July 9

Event

Authorities are responding to an explosion and fire at the ONEOK gas plant, located at 25923 US-81 in Medford, Oklahoma, as of late July 9. Local officials have asked residents within a 2-mile (3-km) radius of the incident site to evacuate. Authorities have also closed roads in the area; US-81 has been closed through Medford, at its junction with US-60 in Pond Creek, and at its intersections with Greer Road and Haskel Road. There have been no immediate reports of injuries; the cause of the incident was not immediately confirmed.

A large emergency personnel presence will probably remain in the area through at least early July 10. Localized business disruptions are likely near the incident site over the coming hours.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent related disruptions. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.