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Massive Explosion at Chinese Fireworks Factory Kills 21

Terry Felix​​​​   On May 5, 2026 - 4:36 am​   In Asia Pacific   1mn Read
Massive Explosion at Chinese Fireworks Factory Kills 21 Massive Explosion at Chinese Fireworks Factory Kills 21

BEIJING, May 5, 2026 — A powerful explosion at a fireworks factory in central China has killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others, state media reported, prompting President Xi Jinping to order an urgent investigation.

The blast occurred on Monday afternoon at a facility operated by the Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, according to state broadcaster CCTV and Xinhua News Agency.

Nearly 500 emergency personnel, including firefighters, medical teams and rescue workers, were deployed to the scene as authorities worked to contain the aftermath and assist victims.

Xi ordered officials to swiftly determine the cause of the explosion, hold those responsible accountable and strengthen safety oversight in the fireworks industry, which has long been associated with industrial accidents.

Hunan province is a major hub for China’s fireworks production, supplying both domestic and international markets.

Authorities said investigations are ongoing, with heightened scrutiny expected on factory safety standards following the incident.

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