• Seven individuals remain missing after a massive fireworks warehouse explosion in California.
• The explosion, which occurred in Esparto, injured two people and caused extensive damage.
• Emergency crews are using drones and other equipment to search for the missing.
• Authorities have established a wide perimeter due to ongoing hazards from additional unexploded fireworks.

Seven people are missing following a catastrophic explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Esparto, California, which occurred late on Tuesday evening. The incident not only injured two individuals but also led to substantial damage as the explosion created several smaller blasts that were visible in the sky. Rescue teams are actively searching for the missing and assessing the perilous situation, according to ABC News and Channel News Asia.

The explosion created a debris field, compelling emergency responders to maintain a safe distance due to the ongoing risk from the fireworks stored in the warehouse. Fire Chief Curtis Lawrence described the situation as “very complex and risky,” highlighting the physical dangers present as they continue recovery operations. The challenges of accessing the site safely have raised concerns among family members of those missing, with some expressing anger over the slow response, as detailed by Reuters and SFGate.

Approximately 80 acres of surrounding vegetation were scorched by the blaze caused by the explosions. Authorities are utilizing drones and unmanned aircraft systems for surveillance and to assist in the investigation regarding the cause of the fire, which is currently under examination by the state fire marshal's office. The local community has been significantly affected, with nearby towns cancelling their July Fourth celebrations due to the incident’s aftermath, as mentioned in Channel News Asia and SFGate.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with those we lost, their families, and everyone impacted in our community," stated the business management of Devastating Pyrotechnics, the facility's operator. A wide evacuation zone remains in effect surrounding the explosion site as investigators continue their work and family members await news on their missing loved ones, according to Reuters, ABC News, and SFGate.