The incident occurred on the afternoon of 15/2 in Dong An village, Dong Hai district, Jiangsu province, eastern China. Local authorities determined the cause was a resident "improperly igniting fireworks" near the store, but have not released specific details.
Emergency services, firefighters, police, and medical personnel were mobilized for rescue operations. The fire at the scene was extinguished after about one and a half hours. The explosion killed 8 people and left two with minor burns.
Authorities are investigating the incident and have apprehended those involved.
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Scene of the fireworks store explosion in Dong Hai district, Jiangsu province, China on 15/2. *Photo: Weibo*
In rural China, people often set off firecrackers and whistling rockets to celebrate holidays and important occasions, such as Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year).
China's Ministry of Emergency Management stated the country is entering the peak period for fireworks use during Tet Nguyen Dan, warning people to avoid unsafe practices like test firing or smoking outside fireworks stores.
The agency also sent notifications to fireworks manufacturing and sales businesses nationwide, demanding a "comprehensive review" of risks.
Huyen Le (According to SCMP, AFP)
