Fireworks Explosion at Cuban Christmas Eve Festival Leaves 39 Injured

A fireworks explosion has injured nearly 39 people in Cuba during a popular carnival on Christmas Eve, Reuters reported.

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The cause of the explosion is under investigation, the official media reported. The incident occurred at the centuries-old Parrandas festival in the central town of Remedios which takes place every Dec. 24 and draws thousands of Cubans and some tourists.

"An unfortunate accident with fireworks occurred last night in Remedios," the government’s Cubadebate internet news service reported.

Remedios is located in Villa Clara province on the northern coast of the island.

Six children between the ages of 11 and 15, also suffered injuries, among the more than 20 seriously injured, Cubadebate reported, health authorities said some were in "very grave, some less grave, and others in critical and very critical condition."

All the injured appear to be local residents and there were no reports of tourists being hurt.

Two of the town’s neighborhoods compete on Christmas Eve each year to put on the most spectacular show with floats and fireworks amidst a carnival atmosphere.