By Micah Jonah, February 19, 2026
At least 12 persons, including five children, have been confirmed dead following a devastating explosion at a fireworks shop in Xiangyang, central China’s Hubei province, as the country celebrates the Lunar New Year festivities.
According to China’s state-run Xinhua News Agency, the explosion occurred on Wednesday afternoon and tore through the retail outlet, triggering a massive blaze that was later extinguished by emergency responders.
Authorities disclosed that seven adults and five children were among the victims. The deceased reportedly included the shop owner as well as customers who had visited the premises to purchase fireworks for the traditional celebrations. Some of the victims were said to have travelled from neighbouring areas to celebrate the holiday with family members.
Officials have commenced investigations into the immediate cause of the explosion, although no formal findings have yet been released.
The tragic incident marks the second fatal fireworks-related blast in China within days. On Sunday, a similar explosion at a fireworks shop in Jiangsu province claimed eight lives and left two others injured. Local authorities in that case indicated that fireworks ignited near the building may have triggered the explosion.
Fireworks are deeply rooted in Lunar New Year traditions across China, where they are believed to usher in prosperity and drive away bad fortune. However, the widespread use of fireworks has continued to pose serious safety and environmental risks.
In response to the recent accidents, China’s Ministry of Emergency Management has issued renewed safety advisories, warning that fireworks remain one of the biggest hazards during the Spring Festival period. The ministry urged regional authorities to strengthen monitoring of fireworks production, storage and retail outlets to prevent further tragedies.
Over the years, several Chinese cities have imposed restrictions or outright bans on fireworks due to air pollution and safety concerns. Nonetheless, some local governments have recently relaxed blanket prohibitions in favour of regulated usage during festive periods.
The latest explosion has once again raised concerns over compliance with safety regulations in the retail fireworks sector, particularly during peak holiday demand.
