Strong Blast at China Port City of Tianjin, Dozens Injured

China’s northern port city of Tianjin has been rocked by multiple huge explosions, reportedly killing at least seven people and injuring 300 to 400 people.

The official People’s Daily newspaper said the death toll was 17 while other state media said three firefighters were among the dead.

The fire has been brought under control, CCTV said, although it is still burning.

Unconfirmed reports indicate residents are being warned to close their windows in case of hazardous gases.

One hospital received more than 50 people wounded in the blast, with more on the way.

The massive explosion erupted in an industrial area in the northeastern city of Tianjin.

The first blast registered at a 2.3 magnitude quake and the second was larger at a 2.9 magnitude – the equivalent of 21 tons of TNT – according to the China natural disaster Network Centre. The explosion happened after they arrived and damaged buildings and infrastructure. Photos circulating online showed patients in bandages and with cuts. “I’m sorry, I still can’t think straight, I’m a bit confused”, he said.

The incident took place in the city of Tianjin, a port around 90 miles south east of Beijing. It is also one of China’s more modern cities and is connected to the capital by a high speed rail line.