Coal Mine Gas Explosion at Liushenyu Mine, Shanxi, China
May 23, 2026
Basic Incident Information
Date of incident: Friday, 22 May 2026.
Location: Liushenyu coal mine, Shanxi province, northern China.
Incident type: Gas explosion / mining accident underground.
Incident Description
State media reported that a gas explosion occurred at the Liushenyu coal mine on Friday night while 247 miners were underground. Rescue teams responded through the night, and the death toll later rose sharply as more victims were confirmed. Reports also said elevated carbon monoxide levels complicated the response and that some trapped miners were in critical condition.
By Saturday, local reports stated that at least 90 people had died and nine miners were still missing. Officials said rescue efforts were continuing and President Xi Jinping called for all-out efforts to treat the injured and thoroughly investigate the incident.
Casualties and Status
Fatalities: At least 90.
Missing: Nine.
Underground workforce at time of incident: 247 miners.
Preliminary Safety Focus
This incident highlights the need for strong methane and carbon monoxide monitoring, effective ventilation, and rapid evacuation systems in underground coal mines. It also underscores the importance of emergency preparedness for large underground workforces and strict oversight of gas-control systems.
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