Independence Day in the United States has turned bloody after a truck carrying fireworks exploded, killing two people and injuring three others.

The incident happened in North Carolina's Outer Banks on Saturday, CNN reported.

Hyde County spokeswoman Jamie Tunnell said the fireworks were to be used for the annual Fourth of July show on Ocracoke Island.

The five victims were members of the crew setting up the display, Tunnell added.

The truck exploded at the Ocracoke Island docks.

One person was killed at the scene, while another died at a hospital from injuries sustained in the blast, according to Tunnell.

In another incident in central Florida, officials said one person was killed in a lightning strike at a Fourth of July gathering in Lakeland and at least 18 others were taken to hospitals.

AGB/DT