Several people were injured in an explosion at a military explosives factory in Bergerac in southwestern France. It is reported by Reuters with reference to local authorities.

A statement from the prefecture of the Dordogne region said eight people were injured, including one with a "life-threatening" injury.

A fire started after the explosion, but the authorities said the situation was under control and that the explosion had no consequences outside the facility's perimeter.

The plant produces explosives and rocket fuel, as well as explosives for civilian use.

Authorities don't yet know what caused the explosion, but it happened in the nitrocellulose section, Bergerac Mayor Jonathan Proload said. Emergency services are on the scene.