11 Mar 2024 | 04:46 PM UTC
China: Authorities responding to fire and related explosion at a factory in Liuhe, Hubei Province, late March 11
Officials responding to fire, related explosion at factory in Liuhe, Hubei Province, China, late March 11. Firefighters containing incident
Emergency crews are responding to a fire and subsequent explosion at a factory in Liuhe, Hubei Province, late March 11. Reports indicate that the fire started at an electronics store and spread to another factory, where the explosion occurred. Authorities have reportedly evacuated nearby residents. The nature of the incident and casualty figures remained immediately unclear. Officials are likely to provide updates over the coming hours.
Heightened security is likely to continue near the affected area. Authorities may restrict access to nearby roads to facilitate the movement of emergency vehicles. Officials may also mandate additional building evacuations and business closures in the vicinity as a precaution until clearance operations and investigations end.
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time to nearby destinations. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water. Heed all official instructions, including evacuation orders.
