Multiple fires erupted during New Year’s celebrations across China, causing alarm and chaos. The incidents occurred at balloon release events in Xinyang, Henan Province, and Wuhan, Hubei Province, sparking concerns over public safety.
According to Hong Kong’s 01 News, fireworks broke out during New Year’s Day festivities. Crowds had gathered to release balloons for the celebration. The situation quickly deteriorated when some individuals used hydrogen gas instead of helium to fill the balloons.
Video footage from Zhanghan Road in Wuhan shows a large crowd releasing numerous balloons. However, the festive atmosphere soon turned dangerous as the balloons became entangled in power lines, triggering a series of explosions.
Initially, the loud sounds were mistaken for fireworks, but as the balloons began to explode and flames erupted, panic set in, and people fled the area. The fire spread to utility poles, causing power outages in parts of the city.
The situation was particularly severe at the Xinyang Wanda Plaza. However, firefighters’ quick intervention prevented injuries in both incidents. Officials reported that the fires were caused by the balloons’ use of hydrogen instead of helium.
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