At least seven people were killed in a massive explosion at a fireworks factory near the southern Italian city of Bari, local media reported on July 24.

White smoke rises from the Bruscella fireworks factory Photo: AP

Several other people were also injured in the accident. The BBC reports that several people are in a critical condition after the Bruscella fireworks factory in the town of Modgno exploded.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident after the first explosion sparked a series of fires and explosions in the area, threatening nearby forests filled with fireworks and other flammable materials.

Firefighters and ambulance crews were on the scene to treat the injured and prevent the fire from spreading from the factory to other areas.

The BBC reports that the factory is ramping up production of fireworks to serve the festive occasions in many towns in Italy at this time of year.

(According to TTO)