Deadly Blast at Fireworks Factory in China’s Hunan Province Kills 26

An explosion at a fireworks factory in southern China has killed 26 people and injured 61 others, according to state media, in one of the deadliest industrial accidents in the region in recent years.

The blast occurred on Monday afternoon at the Huasheng Fireworks plant in Liuyang, a major hub for China’s fireworks industry. Authorities launched a large-scale emergency response, deploying more than 1,500 rescue personnel along with dogs, drones and robotic equipment.

Rescue operations have now concluded, with seven people successfully pulled from the debris. Officials had earlier evacuated residents within a 3km (1.9 mile) radius of the site due to safety concerns.

According to state broadcaster China Central Television, two gunpowder warehouses within the factory posed a significant risk during the rescue effort, prompting additional precautions. Emergency teams reportedly humidified the area to reduce the chance of secondary explosions.

The force of the blast caused extensive damage, shattering windows in nearby residential buildings and scattering debris across the surrounding area. Injured victims, ranging in age from their 20s to 60s, suffered a variety of wounds, including fractures caused by flying debris.

Authorities have begun an investigation into the cause of the explosion. Police have taken “control measures” against individuals responsible for managing the fireworks company, though further details have not been disclosed.

Xi Jinping has called for full efforts to locate any remaining victims and treat the injured, while also ordering a thorough investigation to ensure accountability.

Local officials said environmental monitoring of air and water quality around the site is ongoing, with initial assessments indicating that conditions remain within normal safety levels.