Fireworks factory explosion recorded by the Malta Seismic Network

The Seismic Monitoring Research Group within the Department of Geosciences at the UM recorded the explosion at the Lourdes Fireworks Factory early on Monday morning, 1 June 2026, at 06:36:32.

The explosion was detected by all seismic stations across Malta that form part of the Malta Seismic Network. Analysis of the seismic data indicates that the explosion generated ground vibrations equivalent to an earthquake of a magnitude 1.9 on the Richter scale.

The event produced a distinctive seismic signal that was detected by multiple stations throughout the national monitoring network, allowing researchers to rapidly characterise the source.

Using arrival times and waveform data recorded across the network, the Seismic Monitoring Research Group determined the explosion location with an estimated accuracy of approximately 100 metres.

This level of precision demonstrates the capability of the Malta Seismic Network to accurately detect and locate both natural and anthropogenic seismic sources occurring within the Maltese archipelago.

Although the source was non-natural, the data provide an excellent demonstration of the network's ability to rapidly identify, locate, and characterise significant ground vibration events across Malta.

The Malta Seismic Network is operated by the Department of Geosciences and continuously monitors seismic activity in and around the Maltese Islands. In addition to recording regional and local earthquakes, the network routinely detects quarry blasts, extreme weather events (e.g. medicanes), marine sources, and other human-induced ground vibration events.

Such observations contribute to ongoing research aimed at improving the understanding of seismic hazards and ground motion in the central Mediterranean region.

For more information, you can contact Prof. Sebastiano D’Amico or Dr Matthew Agius from the Seismic Monitoring Research Group, Department of Geosciences at the University of Malta.