A Chinese chemical plant has been rocked by a massive explosion, killing at least five people.

Horrifying footage shows the gas tank going up in flames - as one worker runs for his life across the gangway to the next tank trying to escape the black smoke erupting where he was standing moments before.

In another video, a tank is seen rocketing into the air before crashing into a fireball.

More than 230 firefighters rushed to the terrifying blaze in the Shandong province in China yesterday where 19 were injured and six are still missing, according to state broadcaster China Central Television.

Residents in the nearest city, Weifang, have been warned they should wear face masks as officials wait for the results of the air quality after the explosion spewed out chemicals.