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China Fireworks Shop Explosion Kills 12

Published February 18, 2026, 14:09
China Fireworks Shop Explosion Kills 12

An explosion at a fireworks shop in Hubei province, China, has killed 12 people and destroyed 50 square meters of the store. The incident occurred in the city of Xiangyang, and authorities are investigating the cause of the explosion. China has a history of explosions related to fireworks, particularly during the celebrations for the Lunar New Year. A similar tragedy occurred in June, when an explosion at a fireworks factory in Hunan province killed 9 people and injured 26. The use of fireworks is popular in China, but also raises concerns about safety and air pollution. Some cities in China have banned the use of fireworks, but these measures are controversial, as fireworks are considered an important part of the New Year celebrations and symbolize warding off evil spirits. This explosion highlights the risks associated with the production and sale of fireworks, as well as the need for stricter controls and safety measures.