A huge explosion has ripped through a chemical plant in China, killing five and injuring dozens.

The Shandong Youdao Chemical is located the city of Weifang in Shandong province and manufactures components for use in pesticides and pharmaceuticals.

The explosion happened late on Tuesday morning and sent a massive ball of flames billowing skywards.

At least five people have been killed, with 19 others injured and six still missing, according to local officials.

Video footage showed windows ripped off from their hinges in neighbouring buildings by the force of the explosion.

A local resident told the The Associated Press news agency that his home - located than 7km (4.3 miles) from the plant - shook from the impact of the explosion.

Emergency Services sent more than 230 firefighters to the scene to try and bring the blaze caused by the explosion under control.

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