NEWKIRK, Okla. — A severe dust storm led to a multi-vehicle collision involving a Newkirk Fire Department ambulance on Highway 11 near Doolin Avenue in Newkirk, Oklahoma.
The ambulance was returning from Blackwell Hospital around 1:30 p.m. on March 14 when it encountered near-zero visibility conditions due to the dust storm, resulting in a crash with other vehicles, KFOR reported.
Both firefighters/medics aboard the ambulance sustained injuries and were transported to a hospital. Two additional individuals involved in the crash were also hospitalized. Specific details regarding the severity of their injuries were not reported.
In response to the hazardous conditions, authorities temporarily closed Highway 11 in the affected area. Motorists were advised to avoid the vicinity due to the dangerous low-visibility situation.
This incident occurred amid a series of severe weather events across Oklahoma, including strong winds fueling wildfires and causing widespread power outages. Governor Kevin Stitt declared a state of emergency as more than 130 fires spread across 44 counties, with approximately 200 homes reported lost.
