Sapulpa Shelter Opens For Those Evacuated Because Of Chemical Leak

UPDATE: All area residents on the south side of the turnpike have been released back into their homes. North side residents are still under evacuation order.

SAPULPA, Oklahoma -- A hydrochloric acid leak from a semi tanker just west of the Sapulpa exit on the Turner Turnpike Wednesday afternoon has closed the highway in both directions.  The turnpike is closed from Bristow to Tulsa.

The leak has prompted a mandatory evacuation order. 

Sapulpa Police had ordered all residents and businesses from Main Street west to Sapulpa city limits and Andrew Avenue south to the Turner Turnpike to evacuate. Residents south of the turnpike have since been allowed back.

12/14/2011 Related Story: Chemical Spill Closes Turner Turnpike, Prompts Evacuations Near Sapulpa

The city has set up a shelter at Ridgeway Baptist Church at 7785 South state Highway 97 north of Sapulpa.  Evacuees need to enter the NE doors of the church.

Red Cross is providing snacks and beverages for evacuees.  The warming station is expected to be open for several hours until it is safe for residents to return to their homes.