A devastating gas explosion has killed at least 82 people and left two missing at a coal mine in northern China, officials have confirmed. The blast occurred on Sunday at the mine in the province of Shanxi, with the cause of the explosion not yet confirmed by authorities.
The UK's Foreign Office has issued a warning to British nationals in the area, advising them to exercise caution and follow local advice. In a statement, the Foreign Office said: 'We are in contact with the Chinese authorities and are providing support to any British nationals affected by this incident.'
China's state-run news agency, Xinhua, reported that the explosion occurred at around 7 pm local time on Sunday. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with 12 people rescued from the mine so far.
The tragedy has sparked widespread condemnation, with the Chinese government promising to investigate the cause of the explosion. The incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by workers in China's coal mining industry, which is one of the deadliest in the world.
The UK has imposed no travel restrictions on China as a result of the incident, but British nationals are advised to stay informed about local conditions and follow the advice of the local authorities.