Evacuation order issued for Thorntown after ammonia leak

THORNTOWN, Ind. (WISH) — Residents of Thorntown were asked to evacuate Tuesday following an anhydrous ammonia spill.

The Boone County Sheriff’s Office said the spill happened in the northwest part of rural Thorntown.

“If you are at the Old Mill Run trailer park, please evacuate,” the alert from the Boone County Sheriff’s Office said.

Anhydrous ammonia is widely used as a fertilizer and a refrigerant.

Thorntown Sugar Creek Fire Department posted to Facebook Tuesday night, saying that Thorntown Fire Department and Thorntown police are currently “on scene of an anhydrous tank leak Northwest of Thorntown.”

“It is currently settling in low areas and drifting towards town,” the post read.

TFD says if you notice “an ammonia odor,” leave the area.

“We expect a mild odor to extend to town however it is safest to leave if you start smelling it.
Anhydrous is attracted to water and low areas. If you observe a fog/cloud or strong odor immediately exit the area. If you begin experiencing any concerning health issues we have additional Witham Medics staged in town.”

TFD says that with any hazmat incident, it can evolve. Residents are asked to “be ready to leave if needed.”

Officials said if you or a loved one is experiencing breathing issues or any other symptoms, call 911 for treatment.