Methane explosion rocks Sichuan parking lot after boy throws firecracker into sewer

A methane explosion rocked a parking lot in Zizhong County, Neijiang, Sichuan, after a young boy threw a lit firecracker into a sewer, causing the blast.

The explosion, triggered by biogas buildup in a septic tank, sent a manhole cover flying and sent dark sludge into the air.

Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage showed a parked car being overturned by the shockwave, with several others damaged.

Fortunately, no one was injured, including a woman who was standing close by when the blast occurred.

Authorities acted quickly, locating the boy within an hour and contacting his parents.

While the boy will not face legal consequences, his family may be held responsible for the damages. Investigations are ongoing to assess the full impact of the incident.

The incident quickly went viral on Chinese social media, becoming a top trending topic on Weibo, where it amassed millions of views.

A video posted on X by @anthraxxx781 sparked renewed discussions, with some users questioning whether a simple firecracker could cause such a powerful explosion.

Others explained that methane, which naturally accumulates in sewage systems, is highly flammable and can be ignited by even a small spark.

User @DisasterLevel commented, “Sewage pipes generally have methane gas buildup inside. Methane is flammable and only needs a small spark, like a firecracker, to ignite.”

User @onlymoonies added, “Even a cigarette butt could cause an explosion like this.”

This incident has brought attention to ongoing concerns about firecracker safety.

A similar incident occurred recently in Chongqing, where a young girl ignited a firecracker on a manhole cover, triggering a blast that left her injured.

Authorities later confirmed that her injuries were not life-threatening.

In a more tragic case, two children in Luohe, Henan Province, set off firecrackers on a manhole cover in February 2023.

The explosion caused one child to lose their life, while the other was injured.

Officials continue to urge caution, stressing that flammable gases in sewage systems pose significant risks.

China Fire and Rescue has issued multiple warnings, urging the public to avoid setting off firecrackers in unsafe areas, especially during festive seasons.