A massive explosion at a factory in Russia’s Ryazan region has left at least 20 people dead and 134 others injured, according to local authorities. Emergency services rushed to the site soon after the blast, with rescue operations continuing late into the night.

The incident took place at an industrial facility on the outskirts of Ryazan city. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the explosion, but preliminary reports suggest that a technical fault or mishandling of materials may have triggered the blast.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a powerful explosion followed by thick smoke rising from the site. The impact of the blast damaged nearby buildings and vehicles, adding to the scale of destruction.

Dozens of ambulances and firefighting teams were deployed, and the injured have been taken to nearby hospitals. Local health authorities have appealed for blood donations to help treat those in critical condition.

The Russian government has launched an investigation into the incident, while safety officials are working to determine whether lapses in protocol contributed to the tragedy.