A tragic explosion at a fireworks store in Hubei province, China, has resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals, according to reports from state media. This incident occurred on Wednesday afternoon local time and is currently under investigation to determine the cause of the explosion. The region has been shaken by this event, particularly as it coincides with the celebrations of the Chinese New Year, a time when fireworks are a traditional part of the festivities.

This explosion marks the second such incident in a short span, as just days earlier, eight people lost their lives and two others were injured in a similar explosion in Jiangsu province, eastern China. These events raise concerns about the safety measures in place regarding the sale and handling of fireworks, especially during a peak period when their use is widespread during New Year celebrations.

Fireworks are deeply embedded in Chinese culture, especially during the New Year, symbolizing the drive to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck for the upcoming year. However, these recent tragedies highlight the potential dangers associated with fireworks, prompting discussions around regulatory safety standards and the necessity for stricter controls in the industry to prevent such accidents in the future.