The death toll from Houthi-fired ballistic missiles that struck a strategic air base of Yemen's government forces in the southern province of Lahj climbed to 40, local officials said Sunday.

The Houthis have carried out several attacks using armed drones and ballistic missiles on the al-Anad military base, Yemeni southern forces spokesman Mohamed al-Naqeeb said.

"Soldiers of the third Giants Brigades were struck by three ballistic missiles while they were gathering for morning military training exercises inside the large air base of Anad," a Lahj official told Xinhua.

"Another two explosive-laden drones targeted other government soldiers while they were having their breakfast inside the same air base," he added.

More than 40 soldiers, including senior officers, of the pro-government Giants Brigades forces were killed and nearly 70 others were left injured by the Houthi-coordinated attack in Lahj, according to the official.

Residents said that several loud blasts were heard in the al-Anad area, which is located some 70 km (43 miles) north of the southern port city of Aden.

(With input from Xinhua, Reuters)