Fireworks Store Explosion in Eastern China Kills Eight, Injures Two

Eight people were killed and two injured in a fireworks store explosion in Donghai county, Jiangsu province, China, caused by improper use of fireworks. Authorities responded quickly, and those responsible are in custody. The Ministry of Emergency Management warned of safety risks ahead of the Lunar New Year and ordered inspections of fireworks enterprises. Industrial accidents remain common in China due to lax safety standards.

An explosion occurred at a fireworks store in eastern China, killing eight people and injuring two others, authorities reported late on Sunday. The incident took place in Donghai county, located in Jiangsu province, around 2:30 pm local time (0630 GMT). Local authorities stated that the blast was caused by the “improper discharge” of fireworks by one or more villagers in the area. Rural communities in China frequently use sparklers and screeching “missile” fireworks to celebrate holidays and significant events, including the upcoming Lunar New Year, which falls on Tuesday.
Emergency management teams, firefighters, public security personnel, and health authorities responded immediately to the scene to carry out rescue and safety operations. The fire resulting from the explosion was brought under control by approximately 4:00 pm. Authorities confirmed that eight people lost their lives and two others sustained minor burns. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and those responsible have been taken into custody.
The Ministry of Emergency Management issued a warning noting that China is entering the peak period for fireworks use during the Lunar New Year holiday. Citizens were advised against unsafe practices such as test-firing fireworks or smoking outside of shops. The ministry also sent a nationwide notice to fireworks enterprises, requiring a full inspection of safety risks and potential hazards to prevent similar incidents.
Industrial accidents remain relatively common in China due to lenient safety standards. Earlier this month, an explosion at a biotech factory in Shanxi province in northern China killed eight people. In late January, another explosion at a steel factory in the neighboring province of Inner Mongolia resulted in at least nine deaths. These incidents underscore ongoing concerns about industrial safety and the need for stricter oversight.