Two injured in powerful twin blasts at Malta fireworks factory

WEB DESK: A powerful explosion ripped through a fireworks factory in Malta on Monday, leaving two people injured and sending a massive plume of thick smoke and debris high into the air, local police and authorities reported.

The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, catching nearby residents by surprise. According to witnesses, the initial blast took place at approximately 6:35 am, rattling windows and waking households across the immediate vicinity, according to France 24.

This was closely followed by a second, equally powerful explosion moments later, compounding the devastation at the site.

Police officials confirmed that despite the sheer force of the twin detonations, a major catastrophe was averted as no workers were present inside the facility when the explosions occurred.

The lack of staff on the premises significantly limited the potential casualty count, though the surrounding area sustained considerable impact from falling debris.

Widespread panic and emergency response

The thunderous double blast triggered widespread panic among local communities, with residents reporting that the vibrations could be felt several kilometres away. Emergency services, including firefighting units and medical teams, were deployed to the scene immediately to secure the perimeter and extinguish remaining pockets of fire.

The two individuals who sustained injuries were reportedly in the vicinity of the factory at the time of the incident. They were treated by emergency medical responders, though the exact nature and severity of their injuries have not yet been fully disclosed by hospital authorities.

Malta has a long-standing tradition of manufacturing fireworks for local village feasts, an industry that has historically been plagued by sporadic and sometimes fatal accidents.

An official investigation has been launched by local law enforcement and safety inspectors to determine the precise cause of Monday’s explosions.