Fireworks blast in Mexico injures 30 at Virgin of Guadalupe event

A fireworks explosion in Mexico injured at least 30 people on Thursday during the Virgin of Guadalupe festivities at a church in the state of Guerrero, local authorities said.

Three children, who were seriously injured in the explosion in the town of Tlalchapa, were airlifted to a specialized hospital.

On Dec. 12 every year, Mexico celebrates the day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, a national religious icon. While millions of Catholic pilgrims converge on the Basilica in Mexico City, most local churches also hold individual celebrations.

Guerrero's civil protection said at least 30 people were injured in the explosion in Tlalchapa.

"The state government is providing facilities to airlift three minors who were seriously injured in the massive pyrotechnics explosion," it added in a statement.

State Governor Evelyn Salgado said on X she was monitoring the children's transfer to a specialized hospital.

People who suffered minor burns and hearing damage were also transferred to different hospitals in the region.

Mexican celebrations are commonly accompanied by use of fireworks and other pyrotechnics. Health officials have warned residents to take precautions, particularly with children.