12 Killed In Explosion At Fireworks Shop In China As Luna New Year Celebrations Continue

Last Updated:February 18, 2026, 16:44 IST

At least 12 killed in a fireworks shop explosion in Zhengji town, Hubei province during Lunar New Year. The Ministry of Emergency Management urges nationwide safety inspections.

At least 12 people were killed in an explosion at a fireworks shop in China’s Hubei province on Wednesday, making it the second such blast as the country celebrates the Lunar New Year.

“At approximately 2 pm on the 18th, there was a fire and explosion at a firework and firecracker shop in Zhengji town" in Hubei province, CCTV quoted local authorities.

According to Xinhua, the emergency responders were able to douse the fire.

The fire covered an area of around 50 square metres and has already resulted in 12 deaths, CCTV reported. The cause of the explosion is under investigation.

Also Read: China Showcases Kung Fu Robots At Lunar New Year Gala, Videos Go Viral On Social Media

Fireworks are key part of the Lunar New Year celebration in China. According to AFP, many larger cities, including the capital Beijing, have banned the practice in recent years — in part due to pollution — towns and rural areas are often filled with the sounds of exploding firecrackers and “missile" fireworks for days on end during the holiday period.

On Sunday, eight people were killed and two injured in an explosion at a fireworks shop in eastern China’s Jiangsu province.

In response, the Ministry of Emergency Management has urged the fireworks enterprises nationwide to strengthen supervision and undertake a “full inspection" of safety risks and hazards.

It has also warned citizens against unsafe practices like test-firing or smoking outside of shops.

Every February, China witnesses a phenomenon so vast that it dwarfs any other human movement on the planet – the Chinese New Year travel rush, known locally as chunyun. It is more than just a holiday exodus; it is a cultural ritual, an economic barometer, and a logistical test of one of the world’s most complex transport systems. In 2026, this migration has reached record‑breaking proportions, underscoring both the resilience of China’s infrastructure and the enduring importance of family reunions in Chinese society.

News world 12 Killed In Explosion At Fireworks Shop In China As Luna New Year Celebrations Continue

Read More