Beijing: A huge blast ripped through a northeastern Chinese fireworks factory today (Dec 30, 2003) killing at least 35 workers and putting 19 others in hospital, confirmed sources said.

The explosion tore through two factory buildings of Changtu Safe Environment Color and Noise Company Ltd in Shuangmiaozi Township, Liaoning province, official sources told.

The blast occurred mid-morning as workers were producing fireworks for year-end celebrations tomorrow (Dec 31, 2003) and for the annual Lunar New Year holiday only weeks away.

"Rescue operations and clean up work is still going on," an official on conditions of anonymity told reporters.

"Our county leaders are there directing operations," he said.

Chinese press reports had differing death tolls, but the official State Bureau of Work Safety reported 35 dead as of mid-afternoon.

The two factories, covering some 300 square meters were flattened by the explosion. A four-storey office building was badly damaged along with other buildings nearby, sources said.