China coal mine explosion: At least 82 dead, several workers missing after Shanxi blast, what exactly happened

At least 82 people have died and nine workers remain missing after a massive gas explosion at a coal mine in northern China’s Shanxi province, making it one of the country’s deadliest mining disasters in the past decade.

The explosion took place late Friday at the Liushenyu coal mine in Qinyuan county, where 247 workers were reportedly underground at the time of the accident. Rescue teams continued search operations on Saturday as authorities launched an investigation into the cause of the blast.

#UPDATE The death toll from a fatal coal mine gas explosion in North China’s Shanxi province has risen to 82, with another nine people missing, local authorities said on Saturday. (Video: Xinhua) https://t.co/EDNoiqW3Ys https://t.co/DRyAyQbJXB pic.twitter.com/yD2Di30RV9

— China Daily (@ChinaDaily) May 23, 2026

What exactly happened?

According to Chinese state media, the explosion happened at the Liushenyu coal mine in Shanxi province, one of China’s biggest coal-producing regions. Reports stated that only eight workers were killed, and more than 200 people were rescued safely.

Authorities have not yet explained the sudden rise in the number of confirmed deaths.

Rescue operations underway

Emergency response teams are continuing rescue operations at the site as officials try to locate the missing workers. Local emergency management authorities said the cause of the accident is currently under investigation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping directed authorities to make every possible effort to rescue survivors and provide medical treatment to the injured.

According to state media, Xi also ordered a detailed investigation into the disaster and called for strict legal action against those found responsible.