A huge explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan has killed at least 26 people and injured 61 others, shocking the entire area. The blast happened on Monday afternoon and has raised big concerns about safety in one of the world’s major fireworks production regions.
The explosion took place in Liuyang, which is famous for making fireworks. Videos online showed massive damage, with buildings destroyed over several kilometres.
¨³Death toll from Chinese fireworks factory explosion rises to 26.pic.twitter.com/CleqGDYaCA https://t.co/o4L9XEVMoK
” Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) May 5, 2026
What caused the explosion and how severe was its impact
The explosion happened at a factory run by Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Company, causing huge panic and destruction. Videos shared on Chinese social media showed massive destruction, with damage spreading across several kilometres. As per the Economic Times report, officials said 26 people were killed and 61 were injured in the blast. Emergency teams quickly took the injured to nearby hospitals while checking how much damage was done. The explosion was so strong that it damaged buildings far beyond the factory area.
How are rescue operations and emergency teams responding
As per the Economic Times report, more than 480 rescuers have been sent to the site, divided into five teams, and even three rescue robots are helping with search and relief work. A second round of search is going on to find anyone still missing Since the blast site is close to two black powder warehouses, rescuers have moved nearby residents to safer places and created a safety buffer zone to avoid any second explosion, according to Xinhua News Agency.
Investigation and safety concerns
The Ministry of Emergency Management has sent experts to oversee the rescue work and find out what caused the explosion.
The person in charge of the company has been detained by police, and the cause of the accident is now being investigated, the report said.
