Factory blast kills 17 in South China

The Fuhua Machinery plant is left in rubble after a powerful explosion killed 17 people and injuried 20 others in Foshan city, South China's Guangdong province, Dec 31, 2014. Southern Metropolis Daily posted the photo on Sina Weibo.

A powerful explosion rocked a machinery plant in Guangdong province on Wednesday morning, leaving 17 people dead and 20 others injured and casting a shadow on New Year festivities.

The Fuhua Machinery Plant was engulfed in thick black smoke after the blast occurred at around 9:40 am in Foshan city, Southern Metropolis Daily reported.

The roof collapsed after explosions were heard, leaving the scene in rubble and forcing the temporary suspension of factory operations.

The injured people were sent to hospitals.

Firefighters arrived at the scene for rescue and evacuation.