A powerful explosion happened at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan province, central China, on Monday afternoon. Local officials said that at least 26 people died and 61 were injured. The search and rescue work finished by Wednesday.

The explosion started when gunpowder and partly made fireworks caught fire, destroying several factory buildings. The blast sent thick smoke into the sky and damaged many homes nearby. Residents living within three kilometres had to leave the area for their safety.

After the accident, authorities stopped all fireworks production in Liuyang for safety checks. Police arrested the factory management, and government specialists will investigate the cause of the accident. Hospitals continue to care for the injured workers.