During the traditional Chinese New Year, a major explosion occurred in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, China, triggered by the setting off of fireworks and firecrackers, resulting in 8 deaths and 2 injuries.
On the 15th of February, according to the Chinese lunar calendar, which is the 28th day of the twelfth month, an explosion caused by the ignition of fireworks and firecrackers happened in Dong’an Village, Pomegranate Street, Donghai County, Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province.
Reports from Jiangsu media stated that the incident was caused by villagers setting off fireworks near a fireworks and firecrackers business in the village. During the ignition process, the fireworks were blown over by the wind, causing the flames and high-temperature residue to spread to the business, igniting a series of violent explosions of the stored fireworks and firecrackers inside.
According to local villagers familiar with the situation, the incident occurred at 2:30 pm on the 15th and the fire was not extinguished until after 4 pm. As the location of the incident was in a residential area of the village, there were many people around at the time, resulting in significant casualties and property damage.
On the evening of the 15th, the Donghai County government issued a public statement stating that the incident had resulted in 8 deaths and 2 people with burn injuries.