Gas explosion leaves 12 dead, 138 hurt

Rescue efforts are underway.

Shiyan city has set up a rescue command center at the scene.

173 local firefighters have been sent to the scene, along with 38 vehicles and six sniffer dogs.

The local armed police in Shiyan have sent 40 members to help in the rescue operation.

Wang Zhonglin, deputy Party chief and governor of the province, has arrived at Shiyan.

The Ministry of Emergency Management has sent a team to Shiyan to guide rescue efforts.