The Fire Before The Blast Could Hold The Key To Naxxar Explosion, Chemist Says

The fire seen moments before Monday’s massive Naxxar fireworks factory explosion could be the key to uncovering what caused the blast, according to chemist Professor Alfred Vella. The explosion at the Lourdes Fireworks Factory in Triq il-Qadi generated seismic activity equivalent to a magnitude 1.9 earthquake , shook communities across Malta and left a trail of destruction in its wake. Two nearby farmers suffered minor injuries, at least four cows were killed and several birds at Bird Park Malta died from the impact of the blast. As investigations continue, Vella believes the focus should be on understanding how the fire started rather than immediately looking at the explosion itself. Speaking to TVM News , he pointed to footage from the scene which appears to show a prolonged fire and thick black smoke before a series of explosions occurred. In his assessment, the sequence suggests the initial blaze was likely caused by something other than the explosive materials themselves. The nature of the smoke could also provide important clues. Vella noted that the dark, dense smoke indicates materials such as plastics or carbon-rich substances may have been burning, rather than vegetation, paper or other common combustible materials. He explained that investigators will now be tasked with identifying the source of the fire and reconstructing the events leading up to it, including establishing who was last working in the area and what materials may have been present at the site. While fireworks manufacturing areas are typically designed to reduce ignition risks, Vella said investigators cannot yet rule out a wide range of possible causes, including electrical faults or issues involving waste materials generated during fireworks production. He also noted that environmental factors such as humidity can sometimes contribute to chemical reactions involving exposed materials, making the investigation particularly complex. Beyond determining the cause, Vella highlighted the scale of the blast’s impact. He explained that much of the damage was caused not only by the explosion itself but by debris launched into the air at high speeds. Stones and fragments from the structure effectively became projectiles, while the pressure wave generated by the blast caused additional destruction across the surrounding area. The chemist also raised concerns about the potential aftermath for nearby farms and agricultural land. According to Vella, explosions involving fireworks materials can leave behind traces of unburnt chemical compounds which may settle on crops, animal feed and surrounding surfaces. His comments come as authorities continue assessing the impact on food safety and livestock in the area. Vella stressed the importance of carrying out chemical analysis on crops and feed before decisions are taken on whether any products should be discarded. A magisterial inquiry led by Magistrate Joe Mifsud is ongoing, while police, forensic experts and Armed Forces explosive specialists continue examining the site in an effort to establish exactly what triggered one of Malta’s most powerful fireworks factory explosions in recent years. What do you make of Vella’s comments? Photo credits to University of Malta •