An explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan province, China, caused 21 deaths and 61 injuries. Authorities have evacuated the area and are investigating the incident.

A tragic explosion occurred on May 5 at the Huasheng fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan province, China, killing 21 people and injuring 61. The incident happened around 4:40 PM (08:40 GMT), prompting authorities to evacuate all individuals within a 3 km radius of the factory. Nearly 500 rescuers were mobilized for search and rescue operations, using robots to locate trapped victims. The police have launched an investigation into the causes of the explosion and have taken control measures against the company's management. Additionally, two nearby gunpowder depots were identified as having a high risk. The impact of the explosion was so powerful that windows in nearby buildings were shattered. The injured, aged between 20 and 60, suffered serious injuries, including fractures from flying debris. Authorities have implemented measures to prevent secondary accidents during the rescue operations.