Xi urges all-out rescue work after blast

The city and the provincial government immediately set up rescue and emergency response teams, and sent 173 local firefighters and 40 armed police to the site of the blast.

The information office reported on its social media account that those injured were taken to hospitals for treatment and Hubei has coordinated medical resources across the province to help the city.

According to a witness, some stores in the market were already open and a few people were buying groceries when the explosion occurred.

Images and video clips circulating on social media indicate that the blast packed a huge wallop－only the main structure of the building remains and debris is scattered everywhere.

Hubei Party Secretary Ying Yong announced after the blast that the government will strive to minimize the damage and to promptly publicly report related information.

"The province will organize a comprehensive examination of the pipeline and fire facilities in the province, especially in old residential areas, to ensure the safety of people's lives and property," Ying said.

Zhang Dong, a deputy manager of a local engineering company who voluntarily organized a 100-member team offering on-site logistics support, said he is calling on colleagues to donate blood after hearing of a shortage in local hospitals.

"We are supplying water and food to the rescue team at the site, and since there are many people in the designated blood donation station, we have suggested those who want to donate blood go there at different times," Zhang said.

There are currently four stations where city residents can donate blood.

The cause of explosion remains under investigation.

Liu Kun in Hubei contributed to this story.