CHINA – Blast at Fireworks Factory in China Kills 26, Dozens Injured

An explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan province, has left 26 people dead and 61 injured, according to Chinese state media. The blast occurred on Monday afternoon at the Huasheng Fireworks plant, a facility located in one of the country’s प्रमुख fireworks production hubs.

Emergency services launched a large-scale response, deploying more than 1,500 personnel along with sniffer dogs, drones, and robotic equipment. Rescue teams managed to pull seven survivors from the debris before concluding operations. Authorities also evacuated residents within a 3km radius as a precaution.

The explosion caused significant destruction in nearby residential areas, shattering windows and damaging building structures. Witnesses described warped metal doors, bent window frames, and debris scattered across roads, forcing some villagers to take alternative routes. Fearing further danger, some residents temporarily left their homes.

During rescue efforts, officials identified two gunpowder storage sites within the factory as high-risk zones. To prevent additional explosions, responders implemented safety measures such as dampening the surrounding area.

Victims range in age from their 20s to 60s, with several suffering fractures and other injuries caused by flying debris. Authorities stated that environmental checks on air and water quality have so far shown normal results.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for full efforts to locate any missing individuals, care for the injured, and investigate the cause of the incident. Police have already taken action against those responsible for managing the factory as part of the ongoing inquiry.

Liuyang is widely known as a global center for fireworks manufacturing.

Photo credit: Xinhua via AP. All rights reserved.