A recent explosion at a fireworks manufacturing facility in Hunan province, China, has resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals and left 61 others injured, as reported by state media outlets.

The incident occurred on Monday afternoon in the city of Liuyang, known for its significant fireworks industry.

In response to the explosion, President Xi Jinping has demanded a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

According to China’s official news agency, Xinhua, the blast took place at a facility operated by Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company, located in the county-level city of Liuyang, which falls under the administration of Changsha.

Changsha’s Mayor, Chen Bozhang, reported that the search and rescue operations at the site have largely concluded, although efforts to confirm the number of casualties and identify those affected are ongoing.

Aerial images captured by state broadcaster CCTV revealed lingering white smoke in some areas of the explosion site, with several structures either collapsed or suffering significant damage.

Nearly 500 rescue personnel were dispatched to the location, and residents in potentially hazardous areas were evacuated due to concerns regarding two nearby black powder storage facilities, according to Xinhua.

Investigations into the cause of the explosion are currently underway.

President Xi Jinping emphasized the need for “all-out efforts” to locate any individuals still missing and to assist the injured. He also insisted on a rapid investigation into the blast’s origins and demanded accountability from those responsible.

Furthermore, Mr. Xi called for enhanced risk assessments and safety measures in critical industries, as well as improvements to public safety management protocols.

Five rescue teams, along with three robotic units, were deployed to the site, employing a coordinated strategy that integrated human and machine efforts for systematic searches, as reported by Xinhua.