Explosion at fireworks unit in Kerala kills at least 13

At least 13 people have been killed in a powerful explosion at a fireworks unit in the southern Indian state of Kerala, in Thrissur district.

Authorities say the blast tore through a storage facility containing large quantities of fireworks, triggering a series of explosions that quickly spread across the site.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene in Mundathikkodu, where the unit was located in a paddy field, battling intense flames and repeated detonations as they worked to contain the fire and search for survivors.

Several others have been injured, some critically, and nearby buildings were also damaged.

Officials say the fireworks were being prepared for Thrissur Pooram, one of the region’s largest religious festivals.