A large gas explosion happened at the Liushenyu coal mine in Shanxi province, northern China. At least 82 people died, and many others are still missing. The accident took place late on Friday evening, while 247 miners were working underground. Rescue teams saved many, but the dangerous conditions have made the search difficult.

The Chinese government has started a full investigation into the cause of the explosion. Early reports say that methane gas built up in the mine, but officials have not confirmed if safety rules were followed at the time.

Shanxi produces the most coal in China, and accidents have occurred there before. The government now faces pressure to improve mining safety while keeping up energy production. Search and recovery work continues in the damaged mine.