Explosion kills nine, injures 26 at Hunan fireworks factory

A fireworks factory explosion in Shanzhou village of Tingxiandu township, Linli county in Hunan province, has claimed the lives of nine people and left 26 others injured as of 9 am Tuesday, according to the on-site emergency response headquarters, China National Radio reported.

Rescue teams have reported risks of secondary explosions and flash fires at the site, which have complicated rescue efforts.

To mitigate secondary disasters, firefighters have utilized remote-controlled water cannons to suppress flames.

Due to the factory's mountainous location and lack of major water sources, the rescue team deployed 28 water tankers and two drainage vehicles. High-powered pumps were used to establish a remote water supply system, creating two water cannon stations to control the burning area and prevent the fire from spreading further.

The Hunan provincial government has escalated the investigation into the accident and established a team to determine the cause and pursue accountability in accordance with the law.

Search and recovery efforts are ongoing while treatment for the injured, support for victims' families, and other follow-up measures are being carried out.