Massive Explosion at Chinese Chemical Plant: Hundreds of Rescuers Respond

A powerful explosion rocked a chemical plant in eastern China today, sending a massive plume of black smoke into the air. The incident, which occurred at a facility that produces pesticides, caused windows to shatter in buildings up to three kilometers away. More than 200 emergency responders are on the scene, working to contain the blaze and assess the damage. The number of casualties is still uncertain. "The blast was incredibly loud," said one nearby resident, who asked not to be identified. "I saw the flames from my window and immediately knew something terrible had happened." The plant, which employs over 500 workers, produces approximately 11,000 tons of chemical substances annually. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation. While the full extent of the damage and casualties is yet to be determined, the rapid response of emergency services offers some hope for a swift resolution and minimal loss of life.