Fire and chaos as fireworks and drone show malfunctions in China’s Liuyang

LIUYANG, HUNAN — A fireworks and drone show in Liuyang, China, descended into chaos after a technical malfunction sent fire raining down on spectators. Authorities have confirmed that no one was injured, though dry weather conditions are believed to have worsened the incident.

Flaming Debris Falls on Spectators

The incident occurred on 2 October at the Sky Theatre in Liuyang, a city widely regarded as China’s fireworks capital. The event, titled “October: The Sound of Blooming Flowers,” was designed to combine fireworks and drone displays for a 3D visual performance over land and water.

Videos posted on social media showed panic erupting among spectators as fireballs and burning debris rained from the sky. Some attendees were seen using chairs and clothing to shield themselves from the flames.

Authorities Respond

Local media reported that officials quickly established a one-mile evacuation zone around the site. The Liuyang Bureau of Culture and Tourism later confirmed that no injuries were reported but acknowledged that strong winds and dry weather may have contributed to the malfunction.

Firefighters were deployed to prevent secondary fires, and authorities said a full investigation is under way to determine the exact cause.

Public Reaction

Online reactions were swift and critical, with many netizens questioning the safety of holding such large-scale pyrotechnic shows over populated areas.

One user wrote, “This was supposed to be beautiful, but it turned into something out of an apocalypse.” Another added, “These fireworks should only be held over water — it’s too risky otherwise.”