12 dead in Hubei fireworks shop explosion, investigation ordered

At least 12 people have died following a fire and explosion at a fireworks retail shop in Xiangyang, Hubei province on Wednesday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 2pm at a shop in Zhengji town, Yicheng city, with the fire covering an area of approximately 50 square meters.

The State Council Work Safety Committee and the Ministry of Emergency Management have dispatched a supervision team to guide rescue efforts and the investigation. Authorities have ordered the Hubei provincial government to establish an investigation team to conduct a thorough probe and pursue accountability in accordance with laws and regulations.

The Ministry of Emergency Management said it will send inspection teams to urge strict checks and enforcement nationwide, strengthening safety supervision across the entire fireworks supply chain and controlling safety risks.

Authorities noted that firework usage peaks during the Spring Festival and Lantern Festival periods, creating significant safety risks. Local governments have been instructed to prioritize fireworks safety, learn from the accident, and immediately organize safety inspections of retail shops.