Thursday, October 18, 2012
Ponca City News
High winds and blowing dust are being blamed for a major multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 35 just north of the Hubbard Road interchange near mile marker 220 around 1:00 this afternoon. Accoring to the Ponca City News, authorities have estimated that 20 to 35 vehicles were involved and the number of injuries was unknown this afternoon.
According to reports, at least 8 people were treated for injuries at Blackwell Regional Hospital and six at Ponca City Medical Center.
There are unconfirmed reports that some victims were taken to an Enid Hospital. There were no reports as of 4:30 p.m. of any deaths and the condition of the victims has not been reported at this time.
According to John Utech, severe weather expert, there have been reports of wind gusts nearing 60 miles per hour in the area. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and state weather authorities say that the extended drought, extremely low humidity and dry farm land have combined to make the dust storms Kay and Grant Counties.
The OHP reported that visibility in the area of the accident was down to 10 feet at times.
Traffic was being diverted both east and west from I-35 at Highway 60 and Highway 11 according to Kay County Undersheriff Steve Kelley. Drivers could go north or south on State Highway 77 or 74. Traffic was congested in Blackwell and Ponca City due to the detours.
Full Story with Photos: http://poncacitynews.com/local/multi-vehicle-accident-Thursday
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