The first blast ripped through a workshop of Hongsheng fireworks factory in Kunshan village, Guangfeng district, Shangrao city at around 00:30 Wednesday, said the city’s emergency management office. Several blasts followed.

One of the missing people died after emergency treatment failed.

Rescuers managed to pull out 21 people who were trapped in the dormitory area of the plant and sent them to hospital.

More than 1,000 people nearby were evacuated to safe areas after the blasts.

Forty-eight injured people were in the hospital.

Shock waves damaged some villagers’ homes. Sporadic minor blasts could still be seen at the scene at 08:00.

The plant and all other 31 fireworks in Yangkou Township of Guangfeng have production permits. The executives of the plant are held by police for investigation.

The Guangfeng area boasts a history of more than 300 years in fireworks production.

The local rescue headquarters will work out a plan to help those whose homes were damaged sustain the upcoming freezing cold weather, AP reported.

S/SH