At least 30 dead in Iran coal mine explosion

The explosion was caused by a gas leak. Seventeen workers were also injured, several of whom are in critical condition, authorities said, according to state broadcaster IRIB.

Heavy smoke is hampering rescue efforts, IRIB says. Authorities expect the death toll to rise, as 70 miners were in the mine at the time of the explosion on Saturday night. They are still trapped. Their chances of survival appear slim.