The accident occurred on Monday afternoon at a workshop of the Huasheng company, located in the city of Liuyang, known for its activity in the pyrotechnic industry.
The explosion occurred around 4:43 p.m. local time, generating a large column of smoke visible from various points and causing significant damage to the facilities. Following the blast, emergency teams quickly moved to the scene, mobilizing hundreds of rescuers to assist the victims and continue search efforts.
For safety reasons, authorities ordered the evacuation of nearby residents due to the proximity of warehouses with explosive material, which increased the risk of further detonations. Additionally, the company's manager was arrested as investigations progress to determine the causes of the incident.
President Xi Jinping has called for intensifying rescue efforts, ensuring care for the injured, and determining responsibilities. This incident once again highlights industrial safety in China, especially in the pyrotechnic sector, where such accidents remain recurrent.