Overview
- The explosion occurred around 3pm local time at a Baogang United Steel plate facility in Baotou, state media reported.
- As of 5:30pm, authorities confirmed two deaths, five people unaccounted for, and 66 sent to hospitals, including three in severe condition.
- Rescue and firefighting units from the Inner Mongolia region and Baotou city are operating at the site.
- Footage showed collapsed ceilings, heavy smoke, and large debris, and residents kilometers away said the blast shook homes and shattered windows.
- Officials have not identified the cause, and a formal investigation is underway.