Fireworks Warehouse In California Explodes, 7 People Disappear

UNSPLASH/Dallas Penner ILLUSTRATION

Seven people are still missing after a fireworks warehouse exploded late Tuesday in Northern California. The explosion occurred in Esparto's warehouse, Yolo County, and sparked a series of major explosions.

"Emergency response officers and investigators are working hard with property owners to find the whereabouts of these people," the Fire Department said.

Officers used drones to map the area due to security concerns.

The location is still under emptying orders as authorities warn of a continuing threat to the area.

The California Fire Department (Cal Fire) said the warehouse facility that exploded belonged to licensed fireworks operators.

Investigators are currently working to determine whether warehouse operations comply with strict fireworks regulations and federal explosives storage requirements.

"The type of incident is very rare," Cal Fire officials said.

California Highway Patrol officers helped maintain security while investigators handled the location as an active crime scene.