Advertisement

At least 50 injured after fireworks explode at Spanish fiesta

At least 50 injured after fireworks explode at Spanish fiesta
The annual fiesta in the town near Pamplona lasts five days. (Photo by CESAR MANSO / AFP)

At least 50 people were injured, including three taken to hospital with burns, on Wednesday after fireworks exploded at the start of an annual fiesta in northern Spain, authorities said.

The incident happened around noon in Noáin when a rocket was fired from the town hall balcony to launch the festival dedicated to St Michael, the town's patron saint.

Officials said it appeared that several rockets due to be launched were ignited by sparks from the first firework, causing several to fire downwards and explode among the crowd gathered in the square below.

 

Three men aged 41, 53 and 54 were treated for burns at hospital, the regional government's health department said.

Advertisement

Forty-seven people were treated at Noain's health centre, mainly for ear pain, burns and other injuries. None required hospital treatment.

Images broadcast on Spanish television showed revellers, many dressed in traditional white clothing with red scarves, moving away from the town hall as the fireworks exploded.

The annual fiesta in the town near Pamplona lasts five days and feature events including a procession, communal meals and concerts. The celebrations continued as planned despite the injuries.

READ ALSO: What are the rules for using fireworks in Spain?

More

Comments

Join the conversation in our comments section below. Share your own views and experience and if you have a question or suggestion for our journalists then email us at news@thelocal.es.
Please keep comments civil, constructive and on topic – and make sure to read our terms of use before getting involved.

Please log in to leave a comment.

See Also