Pharmaceutical factory explodes in China; casualties unknown

An explosion today rocked a pharmaceutical factoryin east China's Jinan City, spewing white powder and a burning smell in the nearby areas.

Casualties and environmental impact of the blast is still unknown, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The explosion was reportedly heard around 9 p.M. Near Qilu Pharmaceutical Company in Dongjia Township, said the city government.

According to people living nearby, the explosion was felt strongly, and white powder and a burning smell filled the air.

Firefighters have been rushed to the scene.

Last year, a series of explosions had killed over 170 people and injured hundreds of others at a container storage station in Tianjin.