After a serious explosion in a chemical park in China, the number of victims has increased significantly: 47 people were killed in the accident in the city of Yancheng (Jiangsu Province), as the local government announced. Thus, another 90 people seriously injured - 32 of them are reported to be in critical condition. According to authorities, more than 640 people suffered cuts and other injuries and were treated in hospitals.
The explosion was triggered by a fire in a chemical plant of Jiangsu Tianjiayi, which produces mainly pesticides and employed 195 people, according to the state news agency Xinhua.
The blast on the Thursday explosion also damaged building facades in the area, destroying numerous windows, as evidenced by video footage of the disaster. Many cars and buildings were partially damaged a few kilometers away from the accident site. Rescuers took thousands of workers and residents of surrounding villages to safety.
AFP
Firefighters at the scene of the accident
Several schools and kindergartens around the site were closed on Friday. Authorities tested the air and water quality in the area for potential pollution.
The disaster also alerted the top leadership in Beijing. President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Li Keqiang gave instructions for the rescue work, the Yancheng authorities said.