A massive explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, southern China, has killed 26 people and injured dozens, leveling factory halls and causing widespread damage.

Liuyang is at the forefront of reinventing China's rapidly growing fireworks industry, introducing new innovations and practices.

A rescuer at the site of a fireworks explosion in Liuyang, Hunan province, which killed 26 and injured 61, recounted the hazardous clean-up mission amidst gunpowder and sparks, after he and others were wounded by secondary blasts.

Liuyang reinventing nation's booming fireworks industry  China Daily

Liuyang fireworks are gaining international recognition, spreading romance and joy through their displays across the globe.