Authorities are urging people to evacuate after a large fire broke out at a natural gas plant in Oklahoma.
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office advised anyone living within a 2-mile radius of the ONEOK plant in Medford to evacuate Saturday afternoon. It is unclear when people will be able to return.
“Please avoid any travel to Medford or via U.S. Highway 81 at this time,” the sheriff’s office said earlier, citing an “active incident” at the plant.
Aerial view of the explosion at an ONEOK plant in Medford, Oklahoma.
Deer Creek Volunteer Fire Department / Facebook
The Deer Creek Volunteer Fire Department also urged people to avoid the highway “due to a major fire” at the plant.
ONEOK said all company staff is accounted for and has no knowledge of any injuries at this time.
“We are cooperating with local emergency services and appreciate your prompt response,” the company said in the statement. “Our approach continues to work with emergency officers to extinguish the fire and safety of the surrounding community and our employees.”
ONEOK gas plant in Medford, Oklahoma.
Google Maps Street View
The incident occurred at a natural gas liquid fractionation facility.
Medford is located in northern Oklahoma, more than 100 miles north of Oklahoma City.
This is a developing story. Please check for updates again.