At least two people were injured in a deafening explosion at a fireworks factory in Malta on Monday, sending a huge cloud of smoke into the air and scattering debris across the site.The explosion at the Ta’ Lourdes fireworks factory in Malta and subsequent explosions shook buildings and shattered glass, Euronews reported, citing local newspapers Times of Malta and Malta Today.Witnesses told newspapers that the initial explosion occurred around 6.35 a.m. local time, followed shortly thereafter by a second, more powerful explosion. Police said on social media that no employees were inside the facility at the time.Officials said the injured people suffered minor injuries while working in nearby fields when the blasts occurred.Videos published by local media showed a thick plume of smoke rising from the scene, while debris was scattered in the surrounding area. Residents reported that buildings shook and windows were broken due to the intensity of the explosions.Edward Mercieca, a resident who lives nearby, described the force of the first explosion during an interview. “It felt like someone picked up a hammer the size of a truck and slammed it on the side of my house,” he said, as quoted by the Times of Malta.Smaller explosions were reported for hours after the initial explosion.Following the incident, Prime Minister Robert Abela expressed condolences on social media and said his thoughts were with those affected by the explosion. He also confirmed that officials were immediately dispatched to provide assistance.