A powerful explosion ripped through a fireworks factory in the small northern Maltese village of Magħtab early on Sunday morning, injuring two people and causing widespread damage to surrounding farms and homes. The blast occurred at around 6:30 a.m. local time, and was felt and heard kilometres away, with residents reporting shockwaves that rattled windows and shook their homes.

None of the factory's own employees were present at the time of the explosion, but two men who were in a field adjacent to the facility sustained minor injuries and were taken to hospital. The immediate area has been cordoned off as police and medical personnel work to secure the site, and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the blast. Images from the scene show thick plumes of smoke rising above the village, shattered windows in nearby homes, and the distinctive red flashes characteristic of exploding pyrotechnic material.

Beyond the human casualties, the explosion caused significant collateral damage. Animals in the surrounding area — including birds and cattle — were killed, though the exact numbers remain unclear. Local farmers also reported lasting structural damage to their properties.

Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed his thoughts for those affected, while Roberta Metsola, the Maltese politician who serves as President of the European Parliament, said she was deeply moved by the incident.

This is not the first time Malta has experienced such a tragedy. The Mediterranean island nation, known for its vibrant fireworks culture and high-profile events such as the Malta International Fireworks Festival, suffered similar explosions at fireworks facilities in 2010 and 2012. The recurrence underscores ongoing concerns about safety standards in an industry that remains deeply embedded in Maltese tradition. Authorities have not yet confirmed what triggered Sunday's blast.