A deadly explosion at a fireworks factory in China’s Hunan province, killing 21 people and injuring 61 others, according to state media reports. The incident happened at the Huasheng Fireworks plant in the city of Liuyang on Monday at around 4:40 pm local time. Rescue teams quickly responded. Nearly 500 workers and emergency staff were sent to the site. They searched for survivors and treated the wounded.
Robots were also used to enter dangerous areas and locate trapped people. Authorities said the blast area included two gunpowder storage buildings, which made rescue work risky. To reduce further explosions, they used safety measures such as humidifying the air around the site. Police also took control of the company’s manager while they investigated the cause of the blast. The explosion caused heavy damage. Windows in nearby homes were shattered, and doors and metal frames were bent.
Residents reported flying debris and broken roads. Some people had bone injuries and were taken to hospitals. The ages of the victims injured ranged from 20s to 60s. Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered emergency response efforts. He urged the search for all missing individuals and the rescue of the injured. He also demanded a full investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Local residents described strong shockwaves from the blast. Some residents reported broken windows and damaged homes. One resident said stones were thrown onto roads, forcing detours.
Another resident said she left the village because she was afraid. Liuyang is known as a major center for fireworks production and is often called the world’s largest fireworks producer. Accidents at fireworks facilities in China have happened before and sometimes caused many deaths. In one earlier case in Hubei province in February, an explosion killed 12 people.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the blast and review safety conditions at the factory. Emergency teams remain on alert as recovery operations continue in the area and officials monitor nearby facilities for further risks. Weeks of cleanup and inspection are expected as the community tries to recover from the destruction caused by the explosion. Many residents remain deeply emotionally affected.
