A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan has killed at least 26 people and injured 61 others, according to Chinese state media, in one of the deadliest industrial accidents in recent months.
The blast occurred on Monday afternoon at the Huasheng Fireworks plant located in Liuyang, a region widely known as a global hub for fireworks manufacturing. The force of the explosion was so intense that it shattered windows and damaged buildings in nearby residential areas.
Authorities quickly launched a large-scale rescue operation, deploying more than 1,500 emergency responders along with drones, robots, and search dogs. Rescue teams managed to pull seven survivors from under the debris before concluding operations.
Due to safety concerns, officials evacuated residents within a 3-kilometre radius of the site. Two gunpowder storage facilities at the plant were identified as high-risk zones, raising fears of secondary explosions during rescue efforts. Emergency crews also used water spraying and humidification techniques to minimise further.
Police have initiated an investigation into the cause of the blast and have taken action against individuals responsible for managing the factory, according to reports.
Xi Jinping has called for full efforts to treat the injured, locate any missing individuals, and conduct a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.
Medical officials reported that the injured victims, ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, suffered various injuries including fractures caused by flying debris.
Local authorities stated that environmental monitoring of air and water quality around the area shows no abnormal readings so far, although precautionary checks remain ongoing.
Residents living near the factory described scenes of destruction, with broken windows, twisted metal doors, and debris scattered across roads, forcing some to leave their homes due to safety concerns.
Liuyang is considered one of the world’s largest producers of fireworks, but such incidents highlight ongoing safety challenges in the industry. Explosions at fireworks factories in China are not uncommon, with a similar incident earlier this year in Hubei claiming 12 lives.
