A fireworks factory explosion in Linli county, Hunan province, has claimed the life of one person and injured nine, while six others remain missing as of 4 pm Monday, according to local authorities.

The blast took place at approximately 8:23 am at Shanzhou Fireworks Co, located in Shanzhou village of Tingxiandu township.

Rescue teams are still searching for the six missing people while also providing medical treatment to those in need. All injured individuals are in stable condition with no life-threatening injuries as of Monday afternoon, Hunan Daily reported, adding that rescue efforts are still underway at full capacity.

The fireworks company was established in July 2017 and holds a valid safety production license through September 2027. It employs over 150 workers, most of whom were not in the affected area when the incident happened.

Preliminary investigations by the local fire department indicate that the explosion originated in a single-story reinforced concrete structure.