At least 26 people were killed and 61 others injured in an explosion at a fireworks factory in central China, state media reported on Tuesday.

The blast occurred on Monday afternoon at a facility in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, according to Xinhua News Agency. The factory was operated by Huasheng Fireworks Manufacturing and Display Co. in Liuyang, a county-level city under Changsha known as a major hub for fireworks production, China Daily reported.

Footage aired by state broadcaster CCTV showed thick white smoke still rising from parts of the site on Tuesday, with several structures either collapsed or severely damaged.

Authorities deployed nearly 500 rescuers to the scene and evacuated residents from nearby risk zones due to concerns over two black powder storage facilities close to the blast site, Xinhua said.

An investigation into the cause of the explosion is underway, and police have detained the person in charge of the company.

Chinese President Xi Jinping called for “all-out efforts” to locate missing persons and treat the injured. He also urged a swift investigation and strict accountability, while directing authorities to strengthen safety management and conduct risk assessments in key industries.

Rescue teams took precautionary measures, including spraying water and humidifying the area to reduce hazards during operations. Three robots were also deployed to assist in search and rescue efforts.

Liuyang has a long-standing tradition in fireworks manufacturing. According to Guinness World Records, the origins of fireworks can be traced back to Li Tian, a monk from the Tang dynasty (618–907 C.E.), who is credited with creating early firecrackers using gunpowder packed in bamboo to produce explosive sounds.

Earlier this year, China reported two separate deadly explosions at fireworks shops during the Lunar New Year period.