By the Numbers:
The FAA has put a no-fly zone into effect 3 miles around West and below 3,000 feet
5 fire fighters and 1 police officer died in the blast
Director of West EMS believes there are 60-70 dead
75-100 homes and businesses completely destroyed
Frisco FD called in from over 100 miles away
West has a population of 2,847, there are hundreds that were injured in the blast.
Apr 16, 1947 581 people were killed in a fertilizer plant explosion in Texas City
An information hotline was set up for concerned friends and relatives at 254-202-1100
Explosion occurred at 7:50 pm local time
"Earthquakes" reported in south Arlington, over 60 miles away
66 admitted to Hillcrest Hospital with 40 being critical
Providence Hospital in Waco has received 22 patients
9 helicopters landed on the scene to evacuate injured
West Mayor reports that buildings within 5 blocks suffered major damage
The fire can be smelled as far as west Fort Worth - over 70 miles away.
Parkland Hospital in Dallas received 2 patients, 1 by air and 1 by ambulance.