One worker was killed and another injured in a massive explosion at a fireworks warehouse in India on Monday.

Welding work was being carried out when the sparks ignited a stock of firecrackers at the facility in Athipallam village in Tamil Nadu on May 20.

Footage shows the dramatic moment the firecrackers exploded, illuminating a flickering tower of smoke that rose 100ft over nearby buildings. Terrified onlookers were heard screaming in fear when the loud crackles subsided after several seconds.

Illupur firefighters arrived and extinguished the inferno.

Local media reported that a worker, S. Karthik Raja, 27, who was overseeing the welding, died from severe burns at the scene.

Another worker, P. Sivanesan, 26, was seriously injured and rushed to the Government Hospital in Manapparai.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin expressed his condolences over Karthik's death. He said in a statement: 'Adequate compensation will be given to the kin of the deceased and the injured too soon.'

Viralimalai police said they were investigating the incident.