Rescue operations are underway in the city of Pingdingshan, central China's Henan Province, after a tragic accident in a coal mine left eight people dead and 15 missing, state news agency Xinhua reported. The accident occurred around 2:55 p.m. local time due to a coal and gas outburst at the mine, which is owned by China's Pingdingshan Tianan Coal Mining.

According to the city's emergency management agency, of the 45 people in the mine, 8 were dead and 15 were missing, while rescuers have made contact with the remaining 22. A total of 425 people were working underground when the accident took place, and 380 of them have been lifted out of the mine. Local authorities have begun the rescue operations and further investigations into the accident are underway. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims as the rescue efforts continue.