A massive explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan Province, central China, has killed 21 people and injured 61 others. The incident occurred yesterday afternoon at the Huasheng Fireworks Company in Liuyang City. Over 480 rescuers were sent to the site, along with three rescue robots.
The explosion happened near two black powder warehouses, forcing rescuers to evacuate nearby residents and set up a safety zone to avoid further accidents. The injured were quickly taken to hospitals for treatment, and search teams are now conducting a second sweep of the area.
Experts from China’s Emergency Management Ministry have arrived to help with rescue operations. The company’s manager has been detained by police, and investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing. Rescue teams also used measures like adding moisture to the air to prevent additional accidents during the rescue effort.
President Xi Jinping has demanded a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Liuyang is known as a major center for fireworks production worldwide.