An explosion in a fireworks store in Hubei province, China, claimed the lives of 12 individuals, as per reports from state media. This incident marks the second explosion during the Lunar New Year festivities in the country. Emergency services swiftly extinguished the fire at the fireworks outlet in Xiangyang town on Wednesday afternoon, as confirmed by the official Xinhua News Agency. Investigators are currently probing the explosion’s cause, with further details awaited.
Fireworks play a significant role in China’s Lunar New Year festivities; however, their usage has led to several accidents. Just days prior, an incident at a fireworks shop in Jiangsu province resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and injuries to two more. Authorities revealed that a local resident had ignited fireworks near the shop, triggering the tragic event.
In response to these incidents, the central government issued a warning on Tuesday emphasizing the hazards associated with fireworks during the Spring Festival period. The Ministry of Emergency Management highlighted that fireworks remain a primary safety concern, urging caution and vigilance during the celebrations.