[79332] Powerful explosion at fireworks factory in Malta: heavy property damage and injuries on site

Powerful explosion at fireworks factory in Malta: heavy property damage and injuries on site

On the morning of June 1, 2026, a powerful explosion rocked the Lourdes fireworks factory in the Salina area of Malta. According to reports from Times of Malta, the explosion occurred in the early morning hours, while the factory was empty of workers, which prevented a mass casualty disaster within the site itself.

According to Readovka, the shockwave was so strong that it was felt across the center and north of the island. As a result of the explosion, heavy damage was caused to buildings, vehicles, and nearby infrastructure, and the windows of many homes were shattered. Following the event, Baza reported that authorities ordered the evacuation of residents from the area due to a series of secondary explosions that continued for hours afterward.

Regarding casualties, Malta Today notes that two farmers working in nearby fields were lightly injured and were evacuated for medical treatment. Additionally, local farmers testified to severe damage to their farms and the death of many animals, including cows, poultry, and rabbits. Other media outlets, such as The News/Dwats, noted that a courier who was passing by was lightly injured by shrapnel.

Authorities in Malta have yet to release the official cause of the explosion, but it was noted that this is not the first incident at the site; Kontext mentioned that in 2018 a similar explosion occurred at the same factory, which ended with two people being seriously injured. Rescue forces continue to search the area, although the initial assessment is that there are no people trapped under the rubble.