BEIJING (AP) — A significant explosion occurred at a chemical plant in China's eastern Shandong province around noon on Tuesday, as reported by state broadcaster CCTV. Eyewitness accounts indicated that thick plumes of black smoke were visible from the site of the blast, indicating the severity of the incident.
The explosion was so powerful that it shattered windows at a storage warehouse located more than two miles (approximately three kilometers) away from the factory. A local resident, who chose to remain anonymous due to concerns over retaliation, described how his home shook from the force of the explosion. When he approached his window to assess the situation, he observed a tall column of smoke rising from the site, which was more than seven kilometers (about 4.3 miles) distant.
The explosion took place at the Gaomi Youdao Chemical Co., situated within an industrial park in the city of Weifang. This facility is known for its production of pesticides and chemicals intended for medical use, and it employs over 500 people, according to corporate registration records.
In response to the explosion, rescue teams have been dispatched to the scene. However, local authorities have not yet released information regarding any potential casualties resulting from the incident. Local fire officials mobilized more than 230 personnel to assist in managing the situation, as reported by CCTV.
This explosion adds to a series of safety incidents that have plagued China's chemical industry, raising ongoing concerns about workplace safety and environmental regulations in the region. The local community remains on edge as they await further information about the extent of the damage and the response from governmental authorities.
Authorities are likely to conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the explosion and any potential negligence involved, as the incident draws attention to the broader implications of industrial safety standards in the country.
AP video producer Olivia Zhang and AP researcher Shihuan Chen contributed to this report.
