Spain: A Pyrotechnic Explosion Injures 50 During San Miguel Festivities in Noáin

17:14

At least 50 people were injured on Wednesday in Noáin, in the Navarre region of northern Spain, following a pyrotechnic incident that occurred during the launch of the annual San Miguel festivities. Three individuals suffering from burns had to be hospitalized.

The accident took place shortly after the celebrations began, as the crowd gathered in the main square of the town. A rocket, fired from the balcony of the town hall to mark the official opening of the festivities, reportedly caused the premature ignition of other pyrotechnic devices.

The explosions then occurred among the participants, leading to a panic movement. Images shared by Spanish media show locals and visitors, dressed in white and wearing the traditional red scarf, quickly moving away from the area as several detonations erupted close to the ground.

Three men aged 41, 53, and 54 were transported to the hospital for burn-related treatment. Additionally, 47 other people were treated at the Noáin health center. The reported injuries are mostly minor and include superficial burns as well as hearing disturbances caused by the noise of the explosions.

Local authorities briefly halted the celebrations to manage the aftermath of the incident. However, the San Miguel festivities resumed shortly afterward and are set to continue for five days.

This accident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with the use of pyrotechnic devices during large public gatherings, especially when these devices are triggered in close proximity to the public.