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China blasts: fireball from Tianjin explosions injures hundreds and kills at least 44 – latest updates China blasts: fireball from Tianjin explosions injures hundreds and kills at least 44 – latest updates
(35 minutes later)
7.18pm AEST10:18
China’s official news agency report that 12 of those injured are in a critical condition, citing an official in Tianjin.
149 injured in #Tianjin deadly blasts transferred to larger hospitals, 12 in critical conditions: city official pic.twitter.com/7kxULgdT0w
It also reported that 21 people were missing.
Latest: Over 21 are missing in Tianjin massive blasts pic.twitter.com/g7JSGWd3FB
7.06pm AEST10:06
Russia’s president Vladimir Putin has sent a message of condolence to China’s president Xi Jinping, the Kremlin has announced.
In a statement it said: “The Russian leader expressed his sympathy and support to the families and friends of the victims, wishing a speedy recovery to those injured.”
The prime minister of Lithuania Algirdas Butkevičius also expressed sympathy.
I’m deeply shocked and grieved by the loss of lives in #Tianjin. Heartfelt condolences to the relatives of the victims.
Updated at 7.12pm AEST
6.52pm AEST09:52
Security video from a company in Tianjin shows the moment the windows of a building were blown in by the force of one of the explosions at the plant.
6.45pm AEST09:456.45pm AEST09:45
Aerial photography shows damage to thousands of cars near the blast site.Aerial photography shows damage to thousands of cars near the blast site.
6.32pm AEST09:326.32pm AEST09:32
Dozens of residents near the blast site spent a night sleeping outside or in emergency shelters after being evacuated from their homes.Dozens of residents near the blast site spent a night sleeping outside or in emergency shelters after being evacuated from their homes.
Updated at 6.36pm AESTUpdated at 6.36pm AEST
6.28pm AEST09:286.28pm AEST09:28
The Guardian’s Fergus Ryan has reached a primary school that has been been turned into field hospital. The building is being guarded by uniformed police and soldiers.The Guardian’s Fergus Ryan has reached a primary school that has been been turned into field hospital. The building is being guarded by uniformed police and soldiers.
He sends this image of volunteer workers outside the school.He sends this image of volunteer workers outside the school.
6.19pm AEST09:196.19pm AEST09:19
Chinese officials are expected to give a press conference shortly about the aftermath of the blasts. The official Xinhua news agency has published a photograph of a makeshift command centre in the Binhai New Area of Tianjin.Chinese officials are expected to give a press conference shortly about the aftermath of the blasts. The official Xinhua news agency has published a photograph of a makeshift command centre in the Binhai New Area of Tianjin.
6.13pm AEST09:136.13pm AEST09:13
The prime minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong, was one of the first world leaders to express sympathy for the families of the victims.The prime minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong, was one of the first world leaders to express sympathy for the families of the victims.
My thoughts are with families affected by e blasts in #Tianjin. @MFAsg has contacted most Singaporeans there & they are ok. - LHLMy thoughts are with families affected by e blasts in #Tianjin. @MFAsg has contacted most Singaporeans there & they are ok. - LHL
6.07pm AEST09:076.07pm AEST09:07
SummarySummary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
We are expecting a press conference from authorities in Tianjin in around half an hour, at which we would hope to hear further information on the rescue efforts and those affected.We are expecting a press conference from authorities in Tianjin in around half an hour, at which we would hope to hear further information on the rescue efforts and those affected.
In the meantime, here is what we know about the blasts that rocked the port city on Wednesday night, and their aftermath:In the meantime, here is what we know about the blasts that rocked the port city on Wednesday night, and their aftermath:
I am now handing over the live blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver, who will continue to bring you the latest updates, including that press conference.I am now handing over the live blog to my colleague Matthew Weaver, who will continue to bring you the latest updates, including that press conference.
Thanks for reading and for your comments.Thanks for reading and for your comments.
5.57pm AEST08:575.57pm AEST08:57
My colleague Fergus Ryan, at the scene of the blasts in Tianjin, sends this video showing smoke still rising and the damaged landscape:My colleague Fergus Ryan, at the scene of the blasts in Tianjin, sends this video showing smoke still rising and the damaged landscape:
5.50pm AEST08:505.50pm AEST08:50
Environmental campaign group Greenpeace has expressed concern about the after-effects of the blasts, given the nature of Tianjin’s petrochemical industries. It says it is:Environmental campaign group Greenpeace has expressed concern about the after-effects of the blasts, given the nature of Tianjin’s petrochemical industries. It says it is:
concerned certain chemicals will continue to pose a risk to the residents of Tianjin …concerned certain chemicals will continue to pose a risk to the residents of Tianjin …
The hazardous chemicals stored by company include sodium cyanide (NaCN), toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and calcium carbide (CaC2).The hazardous chemicals stored by company include sodium cyanide (NaCN), toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and calcium carbide (CaC2).
All of these chemicals “pose direct threats to human health”, says Greenpeace, and some “react violently with water and reactive chemicals with a risk of explosion”.All of these chemicals “pose direct threats to human health”, says Greenpeace, and some “react violently with water and reactive chemicals with a risk of explosion”.
5.34pm AEST08:345.34pm AEST08:34
The People’s Daily newspaper reports that 214 soldiers from a “national nuclear biochemical emergency rescue team” are on their way from Beijing to Tianjin to assist in the rescue efforts.The People’s Daily newspaper reports that 214 soldiers from a “national nuclear biochemical emergency rescue team” are on their way from Beijing to Tianjin to assist in the rescue efforts.
5.21pm AEST08:215.21pm AEST08:21
Fergus Ryan is now very close to the site of the blasts, across a highway from the warehouses at the centre of the explosions, from where he sends these images:Fergus Ryan is now very close to the site of the blasts, across a highway from the warehouses at the centre of the explosions, from where he sends these images:
5.03pm AEST08:035.03pm AEST08:03
Drone footage recorded by a member of the public and originally published by Chinese news site The Paper, shows the aftermath of the huge explosions in Tianjin, as parts of the city now resemble a warzone:Drone footage recorded by a member of the public and originally published by Chinese news site The Paper, shows the aftermath of the huge explosions in Tianjin, as parts of the city now resemble a warzone:
4.58pm AEST07:584.58pm AEST07:58
It is now more than 15 hours since the blasts and fires are still burning at the site.It is now more than 15 hours since the blasts and fires are still burning at the site.
The Tianjin local government now says the blaze is mostly under control, but further efforts to extinguish the fires have been suspended on orders of the central government so that a team of chemical experts can assess hazardous materials on site, any dangers to rescuers and the environment, and how best to proceed.The Tianjin local government now says the blaze is mostly under control, but further efforts to extinguish the fires have been suspended on orders of the central government so that a team of chemical experts can assess hazardous materials on site, any dangers to rescuers and the environment, and how best to proceed.
4.47pm AEST07:474.47pm AEST07:47
My colleague Fergus Ryan is in Tianjin and has reached the site of the explosions, where at least four fires are still burning.My colleague Fergus Ryan is in Tianjin and has reached the site of the explosions, where at least four fires are still burning.
He has just heard a small explosion from the site, and reports plumes of white and yellow smoke billowing out of the blast site, a helicopter overhead and the sound of sirens.He has just heard a small explosion from the site, and reports plumes of white and yellow smoke billowing out of the blast site, a helicopter overhead and the sound of sirens.
Debris is scattered, including this barrel, which appears to have “ blasted its way across highway”, he reports:Debris is scattered, including this barrel, which appears to have “ blasted its way across highway”, he reports:
4.25pm AEST07:254.25pm AEST07:25
SummarySummary
As fires still rage after two huge blasts rocked the Chinese port city of Tianjin late on Wednesday night, here is what we know:As fires still rage after two huge blasts rocked the Chinese port city of Tianjin late on Wednesday night, here is what we know:
4.09pm AEST07:094.09pm AEST07:09
Although the blasts took place in the industrial area of Tianjin, with residential areas further from the site (although even at a distance of around 3km many experienced damage from the explosions), some people did live much closer.Although the blasts took place in the industrial area of Tianjin, with residential areas further from the site (although even at a distance of around 3km many experienced damage from the explosions), some people did live much closer.
Dormitories for port workers, many of them from rural regions of China, were built close to the industrial area and most of them are reportedly destroyed. Residents of these dormitories have lost everything, according to reports, and some were seriously injured.Dormitories for port workers, many of them from rural regions of China, were built close to the industrial area and most of them are reportedly destroyed. Residents of these dormitories have lost everything, according to reports, and some were seriously injured.
At this point, death and injury figures are still hard to verify.At this point, death and injury figures are still hard to verify.
Updated at 4.14pm AESTUpdated at 4.14pm AEST
3.55pm AEST06:553.55pm AEST06:55
In Tianjin, Fergus Ryan reports scenes of destruction as he approaches the site of the blast.In Tianjin, Fergus Ryan reports scenes of destruction as he approaches the site of the blast.
This is still some distance – around 3km – from the site of the explosions, which were in the industrial area of the port city, where fires are still burning.This is still some distance – around 3km – from the site of the explosions, which were in the industrial area of the port city, where fires are still burning.
Updated at 4.14pm AESTUpdated at 4.14pm AEST
3.42pm AEST06:423.42pm AEST06:42
SummarySummary
Fergus Ryan in Tianjin and Tom Phillips in Beijing have filed this latest dispatch:Fergus Ryan in Tianjin and Tom Phillips in Beijing have filed this latest dispatch:
Dozens of people are feared dead and fires are still raging after a warehouse filled with “dangerous chemicals” exploded in the Chinese city of Tianjin, sending a mushroom cloud into the air.Dozens of people are feared dead and fires are still raging after a warehouse filled with “dangerous chemicals” exploded in the Chinese city of Tianjin, sending a mushroom cloud into the air.
Tianjin, a port city of around 14 million residents, was rocked by a series of devastating explosions at around 11.30pm on Wednesday night (4pm GMT, 1.30am AEST), according to eyewitnesses and state media reports.Tianjin, a port city of around 14 million residents, was rocked by a series of devastating explosions at around 11.30pm on Wednesday night (4pm GMT, 1.30am AEST), according to eyewitnesses and state media reports.
So far 44 deaths have been confirmed, including at least 12 firefighters, with more than 520 people injured, although those numbers are expected to rise.So far 44 deaths have been confirmed, including at least 12 firefighters, with more than 520 people injured, although those numbers are expected to rise.
“It was like the catastrophic scene in Hollywood movies,” one witness was quoted as saying by Xinhua, China’s official news agency.“It was like the catastrophic scene in Hollywood movies,” one witness was quoted as saying by Xinhua, China’s official news agency.
Chen Bingzhi, who lives about 4km from the explosion site, told the Guardian: “It felt like a earthquake. The whole building was shaking. I live on the fifth floor and all the windows are broken.”Chen Bingzhi, who lives about 4km from the explosion site, told the Guardian: “It felt like a earthquake. The whole building was shaking. I live on the fifth floor and all the windows are broken.”
Firefighters described hellish scenes near the disaster site. “It’s all black and smog, I can’t see anything inside,” one told Xinhua.Firefighters described hellish scenes near the disaster site. “It’s all black and smog, I can’t see anything inside,” one told Xinhua.
The blasts – so violent they sent vehicles and debris flying into the air and rattled homes for miles around – were caused by a shipment of “dangerous chemicals”, state media reported.The blasts – so violent they sent vehicles and debris flying into the air and rattled homes for miles around – were caused by a shipment of “dangerous chemicals”, state media reported.
As dawn broke over Tianjin, which is a major base for China’s petrochemical and shipping industries, the extent of the destruction became clear.As dawn broke over Tianjin, which is a major base for China’s petrochemical and shipping industries, the extent of the destruction became clear.
Drone footage showed fires raging inside the disaster zone and giant plumes of black smoke bellowing into the air.Drone footage showed fires raging inside the disaster zone and giant plumes of black smoke bellowing into the air.
You can read their full report here:You can read their full report here:
Related: China explosions: dozens feared dead in blasts at port of Tianjin 天津港大爆炸Related: China explosions: dozens feared dead in blasts at port of Tianjin 天津港大爆炸
3.19pm AEST06:193.19pm AEST06:19
Death toll rises to 44Death toll rises to 44
Chinese state media say 44 people are now confirmed dead in Tianjin, a sharp rise from the 17 previously reported.Chinese state media say 44 people are now confirmed dead in Tianjin, a sharp rise from the 17 previously reported.
The 44 dead includes 12 firefighters. Some 520 people are injured, including 66 in critical condition.The 44 dead includes 12 firefighters. Some 520 people are injured, including 66 in critical condition.
Updated at 3.20pm AESTUpdated at 3.20pm AEST
3.12pm AEST06:123.12pm AEST06:12
My colleague Fergus Ryan sends this dispatch from the scene in Tianjin:My colleague Fergus Ryan sends this dispatch from the scene in Tianjin:
Black smoke was still visible from Teda hospital, where it is emanating from the blast site just a few blocks away.Black smoke was still visible from Teda hospital, where it is emanating from the blast site just a few blocks away.
Scores of volunteers were on hand outside the hospital with deliveries of stacks of bottled water.Scores of volunteers were on hand outside the hospital with deliveries of stacks of bottled water.
Inside the hospital, some distraught victims and their families seemed to be giving some interviews with local media.Inside the hospital, some distraught victims and their families seemed to be giving some interviews with local media.
One volunteer instructed this reporter not to take photos. A police officer instructed me to leave the hospital and go to a nearby news centre.One volunteer instructed this reporter not to take photos. A police officer instructed me to leave the hospital and go to a nearby news centre.
Army tents were set up outside the hospital but they did not seem yet to be in use.Army tents were set up outside the hospital but they did not seem yet to be in use.
Locals, especially taxi drivers, are offering free lifts to those affected and injured.Locals, especially taxi drivers, are offering free lifts to those affected and injured.
Walking from the hospital closer to the blast site, people wait outside their apartment buildings with packed bags.Walking from the hospital closer to the blast site, people wait outside their apartment buildings with packed bags.
2.48pm AEST05:482.48pm AEST05:48
Reports and pictures from Tianjin show scenes of devastation. Windows and doors have been blown out of high-rise apartments and office buildings destroyed. A fireball appears to have swept through a parking lot of 1,000 new Renault cars, with the paint burned off and the cars left charred.Reports and pictures from Tianjin show scenes of devastation. Windows and doors have been blown out of high-rise apartments and office buildings destroyed. A fireball appears to have swept through a parking lot of 1,000 new Renault cars, with the paint burned off and the cars left charred.
My colleague Fergus Ryan is in Tianjin and approaching the site of the blasts. He reports that buildings some distance from the explosions have suffered damage, with many windows blown out and glass scattered widely:My colleague Fergus Ryan is in Tianjin and approaching the site of the blasts. He reports that buildings some distance from the explosions have suffered damage, with many windows blown out and glass scattered widely:
2.19pm AEST05:192.19pm AEST05:19
Chinese state media has been talking to eyewitnesses who were in Tianjin at the time of the disaster, the Guardian’s Beijing correspondent Tom Phillips reports:Chinese state media has been talking to eyewitnesses who were in Tianjin at the time of the disaster, the Guardian’s Beijing correspondent Tom Phillips reports:
One man, named only as Chi, told Xinhua: “Everything in my home was ruined in the blast. It is so horrible. The pants and shoes you see me wearing now were picked up on my way to the hospital.”One man, named only as Chi, told Xinhua: “Everything in my home was ruined in the blast. It is so horrible. The pants and shoes you see me wearing now were picked up on my way to the hospital.”
Hu Xiaoliang, a 32-year-old truck driver, said he had been napping under his vehicle at the time of the explosions. The force of the blast “catapulted” him away from beneath the truck, he said.Hu Xiaoliang, a 32-year-old truck driver, said he had been napping under his vehicle at the time of the explosions. The force of the blast “catapulted” him away from beneath the truck, he said.
Firefighters described hellish scenes near the disaster site. “It’s all black and smog, I can’t see anything inside,” one told Xinhua.Firefighters described hellish scenes near the disaster site. “It’s all black and smog, I can’t see anything inside,” one told Xinhua.
1.57pm AEST04:571.57pm AEST04:57
SummarySummary
Twelve hours after two huge blasts rocked the Chinese port city of Tianjin, here is what we know:Twelve hours after two huge blasts rocked the Chinese port city of Tianjin, here is what we know:
Updated at 3.58pm AESTUpdated at 3.58pm AEST
1.42pm AEST04:421.42pm AEST04:42
Updated casualty figuresUpdated casualty figures
State media reports that there are now:State media reports that there are now:
1.40pm AEST04:401.40pm AEST04:40
Amber Ziye Wang reports that firefighting efforts have been suspended in part because of fears that the warehouses could contain cyanide products, which are highly toxic.Amber Ziye Wang reports that firefighting efforts have been suspended in part because of fears that the warehouses could contain cyanide products, which are highly toxic.
1.35pm AEST04:351.35pm AEST04:35
My colleague Fergus Ryan is at Tianjin Teda hospital, where many of those injured in the blasts have been taken.My colleague Fergus Ryan is at Tianjin Teda hospital, where many of those injured in the blasts have been taken.
A number of tents have been set up outside the hospital building to treat the injured, reported to be at least 400 people:A number of tents have been set up outside the hospital building to treat the injured, reported to be at least 400 people:
1.25pm AEST04:251.25pm AEST04:25
Firefighting suspended amid safety fearsFirefighting suspended amid safety fears
Efforts to contain the fires in Tianjin have been suspended due to uncertainty over the contents of warehouses and other areas that are ablaze, reports via BBC News and Reuters say.Efforts to contain the fires in Tianjin have been suspended due to uncertainty over the contents of warehouses and other areas that are ablaze, reports via BBC News and Reuters say.
The Binhai New District government in Tianjin city made the announcement on its official Weibo account, saying firefighting efforts have been suspended due to lack of clarity about the contents and amount of the “dangerous goods” in the warehouse.The Binhai New District government in Tianjin city made the announcement on its official Weibo account, saying firefighting efforts have been suspended due to lack of clarity about the contents and amount of the “dangerous goods” in the warehouse.
We have already heard that nine firefighters have died and 36 are missing in the wake of the two blasts. Around 100 fire trucks are on the scene.We have already heard that nine firefighters have died and 36 are missing in the wake of the two blasts. Around 100 fire trucks are on the scene.
Updated at 1.26pm AESTUpdated at 1.26pm AEST
1.17pm AEST04:171.17pm AEST04:17
Associated Press reports that authorities on the scene are exercising strict controls over reporters and onlookers:Associated Press reports that authorities on the scene are exercising strict controls over reporters and onlookers:
As is customary during disasters, Chinese authorities are trying to keep a tight control over information.As is customary during disasters, Chinese authorities are trying to keep a tight control over information.
Police are keeping journalists and bystanders away with a cordon as many as a few kilometres from the site.Police are keeping journalists and bystanders away with a cordon as many as a few kilometres from the site.
On China’s popular microblogging platform Weibo, some users complain that their posts about the blasts have been deleted, and the number of searchable posts on the disaster fluctuated, in a sign that authorities are manipulating or placing limits on the number of posts.On China’s popular microblogging platform Weibo, some users complain that their posts about the blasts have been deleted, and the number of searchable posts on the disaster fluctuated, in a sign that authorities are manipulating or placing limits on the number of posts.
Local reports from close to the hospital suggested that reporters had been told by authorities there not to take photographs and to delete any images they had taken.Local reports from close to the hospital suggested that reporters had been told by authorities there not to take photographs and to delete any images they had taken.
1.09pm AEST04:091.09pm AEST04:09
Chinese state-controlled news agency Xinhua has provided some more information on what it describes as “the logistic company that owns the warehouses”:Chinese state-controlled news agency Xinhua has provided some more information on what it describes as “the logistic company that owns the warehouses”:
According to the company’s official website, Tianjin Dongjiang Port Rui Hai International Logistics Co. Ltd. was founded in 2011 and is a storage and distribution center of containers of dangerous goods at the Tianjin port.According to the company’s official website, Tianjin Dongjiang Port Rui Hai International Logistics Co. Ltd. was founded in 2011 and is a storage and distribution center of containers of dangerous goods at the Tianjin port.
The company’s business includes the storage, transfer, distribution and customs declaration of dangerous chemicals. Freight volume through the company stands at one million tonnes each year, with annual revenues exceeding 30 million yuan (US$4.7m).The company’s business includes the storage, transfer, distribution and customs declaration of dangerous chemicals. Freight volume through the company stands at one million tonnes each year, with annual revenues exceeding 30 million yuan (US$4.7m).
The center includes two warehouses for dangerous goods. One is located next to an office building.The center includes two warehouses for dangerous goods. One is located next to an office building.
Executives of the company have been controlled.Executives of the company have been controlled.
The meaning of “controlled” is not clear. It is likely to mean “detained”.The meaning of “controlled” is not clear. It is likely to mean “detained”.
Updated at 1.20pm AESTUpdated at 1.20pm AEST
12.55pm AEST03:5512.55pm AEST03:55
The UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond, who is currently in Beijing on a two-day visit to China, has put out this statement on the Tianjin explosions. He visited the port city earlier on Wednesday:The UK foreign secretary Philip Hammond, who is currently in Beijing on a two-day visit to China, has put out this statement on the Tianjin explosions. He visited the port city earlier on Wednesday:
I express my deep condolences for the tragic loss of life and the hundreds injured in the Tianjin explosions.I express my deep condolences for the tragic loss of life and the hundreds injured in the Tianjin explosions.
I was in this vibrant city, meeting local workers at the Airbus factory, just hours before the explosions happened and pay tribute to Tianjin emergency workers who have been fighting fires and treating casualties.I was in this vibrant city, meeting local workers at the Airbus factory, just hours before the explosions happened and pay tribute to Tianjin emergency workers who have been fighting fires and treating casualties.
I have conveyed Britain’s condolences to senior Chinese ministers and our Embassy in Beijing is in touch with relevant national and local authorities.I have conveyed Britain’s condolences to senior Chinese ministers and our Embassy in Beijing is in touch with relevant national and local authorities.
There are no reports so far of any British injured but consular staff are working urgently to establish whether any have been caught up in this terrible incident.There are no reports so far of any British injured but consular staff are working urgently to establish whether any have been caught up in this terrible incident.
12.46pm AEST03:4612.46pm AEST03:46
Fergus Ryan in Tianjin reports that factories in the port city have been told not to open until they have been checked for safety:Fergus Ryan in Tianjin reports that factories in the port city have been told not to open until they have been checked for safety:
According to Mihir Bajoria, who is CEO of Monocon International, which has a factory in the affected area (Tianjin Monocon Refractories), all factories in Tianjin have been given orders to not start production till safety checks are carried out.According to Mihir Bajoria, who is CEO of Monocon International, which has a factory in the affected area (Tianjin Monocon Refractories), all factories in Tianjin have been given orders to not start production till safety checks are carried out.
“Lots of people were injured in their houses simply by the glass shattering,” Bajoria said.“Lots of people were injured in their houses simply by the glass shattering,” Bajoria said.
12.38pm AEST03:3812.38pm AEST03:38
A number of Tianjin residents have described the blasts as akin to an earthquake and the blast was indeed registered by the US Geological Survey, which noted two small seismological actions followed by one big one at a seismometer station 160km (100 miles) away in Beijing.A number of Tianjin residents have described the blasts as akin to an earthquake and the blast was indeed registered by the US Geological Survey, which noted two small seismological actions followed by one big one at a seismometer station 160km (100 miles) away in Beijing.
USGS geophysicist John Bellini said it was rare to detect seismological activity from non-earthquake events:USGS geophysicist John Bellini said it was rare to detect seismological activity from non-earthquake events:
Blasts that are not mine-related are rare to record, just because they don’t get transferred into the ground very well.Blasts that are not mine-related are rare to record, just because they don’t get transferred into the ground very well.
Related: China's Tianjin blast sets off earthquake-recording instruments 100 miles awayRelated: China's Tianjin blast sets off earthquake-recording instruments 100 miles away
12.32pm AEST03:3212.32pm AEST03:32
An indication of how difficult it is for local people in Tianjin to get up-to-date information on what’s happening in their city (and the difficulty for reporters in finding and communicating that information) – my colleague Fergus Ryan says local Tianjin TV is reportedly ready to transmit live coverage of the disaster, but is still awaiting official approval to do so.An indication of how difficult it is for local people in Tianjin to get up-to-date information on what’s happening in their city (and the difficulty for reporters in finding and communicating that information) – my colleague Fergus Ryan says local Tianjin TV is reportedly ready to transmit live coverage of the disaster, but is still awaiting official approval to do so.
In the meantime:In the meantime:
Animation currently on #Tianjin TV after the explosion (via Wechat) pic.twitter.com/28TilnH4OtAnimation currently on #Tianjin TV after the explosion (via Wechat) pic.twitter.com/28TilnH4Ot
12.28pm AEST03:2812.28pm AEST03:28
Nine firefighters killed – local reportsNine firefighters killed – local reports
Local media now says nine firefighters have died; 36 remain missing.Local media now says nine firefighters have died; 36 remain missing.
12.18pm AEST03:1812.18pm AEST03:18
The extraordinary video and images emerging of the moment of the blasts demonstrate the force and reach of the explosions:The extraordinary video and images emerging of the moment of the blasts demonstrate the force and reach of the explosions:
Video: #Explosions rock China's #Tianjin, 17 killed,over 400 wounded. Cause unclear pic.twitter.com/9vIFVpEQTwVideo: #Explosions rock China's #Tianjin, 17 killed,over 400 wounded. Cause unclear pic.twitter.com/9vIFVpEQTw
We have rounded up some of the most striking social media testimony from people in Tianjin here:We have rounded up some of the most striking social media testimony from people in Tianjin here:
Related: Tianjin explosion: social media reactions to China blastsRelated: Tianjin explosion: social media reactions to China blasts
Updated at 12.20pm AESTUpdated at 12.20pm AEST
12.13pm AEST03:1312.13pm AEST03:13
The BBC reports that around 100 fire trucks remain on the scene, as firefighters battle to bring blazes under control.The BBC reports that around 100 fire trucks remain on the scene, as firefighters battle to bring blazes under control.
We know that authorities have lost contact with 36 of the firefighters and six have died.We know that authorities have lost contact with 36 of the firefighters and six have died.
Though we still do not know – and it might be some time before we do have more information on this – the precise cause of the blasts, authorities have confirmed that “explosives” were being handled at the warehouse.Though we still do not know – and it might be some time before we do have more information on this – the precise cause of the blasts, authorities have confirmed that “explosives” were being handled at the warehouse.
12.09pm AEST03:0912.09pm AEST03:09
My colleague Fergus Ryan is on the way to Tianjin. With hundreds of people injured in the blasts, he says, many residents of the city have offered to donate blood:My colleague Fergus Ryan is on the way to Tianjin. With hundreds of people injured in the blasts, he says, many residents of the city have offered to donate blood:
People lining up to donate blood on Nanjing Rd Tianjin. (Via Weibo) pic.twitter.com/by3iC8Yh01People lining up to donate blood on Nanjing Rd Tianjin. (Via Weibo) pic.twitter.com/by3iC8Yh01
11.59am AEST02:5911.59am AEST02:59
Reuters reports that authorities say they have lost contact with 36 firefighters at the scene of the two massive explosions, citing the Beijing News and Tianjin fire officials.Reuters reports that authorities say they have lost contact with 36 firefighters at the scene of the two massive explosions, citing the Beijing News and Tianjin fire officials.
So far, 17 people are confirmed dead, including six firefighters, and at least 400 injured.So far, 17 people are confirmed dead, including six firefighters, and at least 400 injured.
11.52am AEST02:5211.52am AEST02:52
Fresh images from Tianjin in daylight are coming in, showing some of the scale of the devastation from the overnight blasts.Fresh images from Tianjin in daylight are coming in, showing some of the scale of the devastation from the overnight blasts.
Fires are still burning in the port city, having not yet been brought under control. Six firefighters have already been confirmed dead, with others reportedly unaccounted for:Fires are still burning in the port city, having not yet been brought under control. Six firefighters have already been confirmed dead, with others reportedly unaccounted for:
11.44am AEST02:4411.44am AEST02:44
The Chinese state-controlled news agency Xinhua reports that president Xi Jinping and premier Li Keqiang “have urged all-out efforts to save the injured and minimise casualties in the Tianjin blast”.The Chinese state-controlled news agency Xinhua reports that president Xi Jinping and premier Li Keqiang “have urged all-out efforts to save the injured and minimise casualties in the Tianjin blast”.
It says Xi has “ordered local authorities in Tianjin to spare no effort to treat the injured, search for the missing and contain the fire”.It says Xi has “ordered local authorities in Tianjin to spare no effort to treat the injured, search for the missing and contain the fire”.
A group led by public security minister Guo Shengkun will direct rescue operation and emergency response.A group led by public security minister Guo Shengkun will direct rescue operation and emergency response.
Xinhua reports:Xinhua reports:
Xi noted that the cause of the fire must be found out, family members of the victims should be taken good care of while public order should be maintained. Xi added search and rescue missions must be carried out in an appropriate way to guarantee the safety of the rescuers.Xi noted that the cause of the fire must be found out, family members of the victims should be taken good care of while public order should be maintained. Xi added search and rescue missions must be carried out in an appropriate way to guarantee the safety of the rescuers.
Xi also urged governments at all levels to draw a lesson from the accident, insist on the paramount interests of the people, carry out safety checks, enhance their management of dangerous chemicals, ensure production safety and protect the people’s lives and property.Xi also urged governments at all levels to draw a lesson from the accident, insist on the paramount interests of the people, carry out safety checks, enhance their management of dangerous chemicals, ensure production safety and protect the people’s lives and property.
Premier Li urged authorities to intensify search and rescue. He required that the injured should be treated properly to minimize death from injuries.Premier Li urged authorities to intensify search and rescue. He required that the injured should be treated properly to minimize death from injuries.
Li also vowed thorough investigation in the accident and ensure open and transparent information disclosure to the public.Li also vowed thorough investigation in the accident and ensure open and transparent information disclosure to the public.
China’s record on industrial disasters is poor: last year a blast in a factory killed around 70 people; in 2013, 119 people died in another factory explosion.China’s record on industrial disasters is poor: last year a blast in a factory killed around 70 people; in 2013, 119 people died in another factory explosion.
11.36am AEST02:3611.36am AEST02:36
Surprisingly – given the scale of the devastation – officials are insisting that the port of Tianjin is operating as normal, Reuters reports:Surprisingly – given the scale of the devastation – officials are insisting that the port of Tianjin is operating as normal, Reuters reports:
The northeastern Chinese port of Tianjin is operating as normal after two massive explosions ripped through an industrial area nearby overnight, a port official said on Thursday.The northeastern Chinese port of Tianjin is operating as normal after two massive explosions ripped through an industrial area nearby overnight, a port official said on Thursday.
“[The port is] operating as normal. We have not been affected,” said an executive, who identified himself as the duty officer at Tianjin Port (Group) and gave his surname as Wei.“[The port is] operating as normal. We have not been affected,” said an executive, who identified himself as the duty officer at Tianjin Port (Group) and gave his surname as Wei.
Tianjin is one of the world’s busiest container ports.Tianjin is one of the world’s busiest container ports.
We will look into this.We will look into this.
11.26am AEST02:2611.26am AEST02:26
Six firefighters confirmed deadSix firefighters confirmed dead
My colleague Fergus Ryan sends this en route to Tianjin: six firefighters attending the scene of the blasts are now known to have been killed.My colleague Fergus Ryan sends this en route to Tianjin: six firefighters attending the scene of the blasts are now known to have been killed.
Tianjin rescue operation ongoing, 6 firefighters confirmed dead, many ppl still missing. 天津爆炸至少6名消防员遇难 中国新闻网 http://t.co/AzXIiHiVopTianjin rescue operation ongoing, 6 firefighters confirmed dead, many ppl still missing. 天津爆炸至少6名消防员遇难 中国新闻网 http://t.co/AzXIiHiVop
Updated at 11.26am AESTUpdated at 11.26am AEST
11.20am AEST02:2011.20am AEST02:20
Officials say at least 17 deadOfficials say at least 17 dead
The latest death toll, according to government officials and state media, stands at 17 – although that number is expected to rise.The latest death toll, according to government officials and state media, stands at 17 – although that number is expected to rise.
It is 9.15am in Tianjin – the explosions took place around midnight – and with part of the city reduced to rubble, the search and rescue effort is still in its early stages.It is 9.15am in Tianjin – the explosions took place around midnight – and with part of the city reduced to rubble, the search and rescue effort is still in its early stages.
Reports say that several hundred people are being treated in hospitals for their injuries, with 32 so far confirmed to be in a serious condition. This number, too, can be expected to change as we receive more information.Reports say that several hundred people are being treated in hospitals for their injuries, with 32 so far confirmed to be in a serious condition. This number, too, can be expected to change as we receive more information.
Updated at 11.25am AESTUpdated at 11.25am AEST
11.16am AEST02:1611.16am AEST02:16
My colleague Fergus Ryan is travelling to Tianjin, the site of the explosions.My colleague Fergus Ryan is travelling to Tianjin, the site of the explosions.
Some media reports describe the scene as like the end of the world. 【天津危化品爆炸 300米外上千辆汽车被烧仅剩框架】http://t.co/mKVUyoEZDA pic.twitter.com/FIZhtRDNAuSome media reports describe the scene as like the end of the world. 【天津危化品爆炸 300米外上千辆汽车被烧仅剩框架】http://t.co/mKVUyoEZDA pic.twitter.com/FIZhtRDNAu
There are reports of car tyres melted into the ground by the heat of the blasts, scorched buildings and areas reduced to rubble.There are reports of car tyres melted into the ground by the heat of the blasts, scorched buildings and areas reduced to rubble.
11.11am AEST02:1111.11am AEST02:11
This map shows the location of the blast, in the Binhai area of Tianjin, on the cusp of Bohai bay.This map shows the location of the blast, in the Binhai area of Tianjin, on the cusp of Bohai bay.
Tianjin is China’s fourth largest city by population, which the BBC puts at around 15 million. It is around 113km (70 miles) from Beijing.Tianjin is China’s fourth largest city by population, which the BBC puts at around 15 million. It is around 113km (70 miles) from Beijing.
11.00am AEST02:0011.00am AEST02:00
The blasts are believed to have originated from a special warehouse in the industrial port, designated for storing dangerous materials.The blasts are believed to have originated from a special warehouse in the industrial port, designated for storing dangerous materials.
We don’t yet know what these materials were, although Tianjin is a major base for petrochemicals, refining and other industrials.We don’t yet know what these materials were, although Tianjin is a major base for petrochemicals, refining and other industrials.
The industrial area of Tianjin is crammed with warehouses and containers, although there are residential buildings just a few hundred metres away – and the blasts were felt much further away still, rocking homes across the city.The industrial area of Tianjin is crammed with warehouses and containers, although there are residential buildings just a few hundred metres away – and the blasts were felt much further away still, rocking homes across the city.
As my colleague Emma Graham-Harrison reports:As my colleague Emma Graham-Harrison reports:
The biggest blasts, which took place within 30 seconds, were so strong that they registered at a nearby earthquake monitoring centre.The biggest blasts, which took place within 30 seconds, were so strong that they registered at a nearby earthquake monitoring centre.
The first blast was equal in strength to the detonation of three tons of TNT, while the second was the equivalent of 21 tons of the explosive, said the China Earthquake Networks Centre.The first blast was equal in strength to the detonation of three tons of TNT, while the second was the equivalent of 21 tons of the explosive, said the China Earthquake Networks Centre.
10.46am AEST01:4610.46am AEST01:46
Opening summaryOpening summary
Claire PhippsClaire Phipps
A series of devastating blasts in the city of Tianjin in northern China – the gateway port to Beijing – has sent a fireball hundreds of metres into the air.A series of devastating blasts in the city of Tianjin in northern China – the gateway port to Beijing – has sent a fireball hundreds of metres into the air.
Latest reports say hundreds of people have been injured and at least 17 killed, although that total is expected to rise.Latest reports say hundreds of people have been injured and at least 17 killed, although that total is expected to rise.
A shipment of “dangerous goods” in a warehouse went up in flames shortly before midnight local time (1600 GMT, 2am AEST), state media reported, causing explosions so strong that they shook homes on the other side of the city and sent flaming debris arching over nearby high-rise buildings.A shipment of “dangerous goods” in a warehouse went up in flames shortly before midnight local time (1600 GMT, 2am AEST), state media reported, causing explosions so strong that they shook homes on the other side of the city and sent flaming debris arching over nearby high-rise buildings.
As China wakes up to news of the blasts, this live blog will have the latest updates as more information comes through.As China wakes up to news of the blasts, this live blog will have the latest updates as more information comes through.
My colleague Fergus Ryan is on his way to Tianjin and you can follow updates from him @fryan.My colleague Fergus Ryan is on his way to Tianjin and you can follow updates from him @fryan.
I will also post key updates @Claire_Phipps.I will also post key updates @Claire_Phipps.
Catch up with our latest report here:Catch up with our latest report here:
Related: Explosions in Chinese city of Tianjin kill at least 17 and injure hundredsRelated: Explosions in Chinese city of Tianjin kill at least 17 and injure hundreds