AKIPRESS.COM - An explosion at a fireworks market outside Mexico City has killed at least 26 people, officials say, reports BBC.

Dozens of other people were injured as the blast hit the San Pablito fireworks market, about 20 miles (32km) outside the city.

A large number of fireworks rocketed into the air as they caught fire.

Dozens of paramedics and police attended the scene. The cause of the explosions is not yet known.

Locals have been told to avoid the area and keep roads clear.

State governor Eruviel Avila said the top priority was to care for the injured, and officials had been dispatched to the scene.

Fireworks continued to explode after the initial blast, as smoke billowed from the area in thick black clouds.

Photos from police and medical personnel at the scene showed several injured people among the destroyed market stalls, with brick buildings scorched by the heat.