Fireworks factory explodes in central Thailand causing multiple reported deaths

An explosion at a fireworks factory in central Thailand has resulted in at least 15 deaths, according to a rescue worker. The exact toll remains unclear, with varying reports from local media. Rescue workers' photos show the factory site leveled in an unoccupied rice field. The cause of the blast is unknown. The incident occurred less than a month before Chinese New Year, heightening demand for fireworks. A similar explosion in southern Thailand last July, attributed to construction work igniting stored fireworks, claimed at least 10 lives and injured over 100.