A deadly explosion struck the Huasheng Fireworks plant in Liuyang, Hunan province, killing 21 people and injuring 61, the BBC reported.
The blast caused extensive destruction. Nearby residential buildings were damaged, with shattered windows and distorted metal structures reported. Some of the injured sustained bone injuries from flying debris.
To respond to the incident, authorities deployed nearly 500 rescue personnel and robots to search for survivors trapped inside the damaged buildings and assist the injured.
As two gunpowder storage sites within the facility continued to pose risks during rescue operations, emergency teams evacuated residents within a 3-kilometer radius as a precaution. Specialists also implemented additional safety measures, including humidifying the area to reduce the risk of further incidents.
Chinese police have launched an investigation into the cause of the explosion, while President Xi Jinping called for comprehensive efforts to locate missing individuals and urged a thorough inquiry to ensure accountability.
State media also reported that «control measures» have been taken against the individual in charge of the company.
Fireworks play a significant role in Chinese culture, making the country the world’s largest producer of pyrotechnics. Liuyang is widely recognized as a major center for fireworks production in China.
Last month, BYD, the world’s largest manufacturer of electric vehicles, reported a fire in a parking area where hundreds of testing vehicles were located. No injuries were reported.
