A major industrial fire at a scrapyard in Għaxaq sent a large plume of hazardous black smoke over southern Malta on Wednesday, prompting urgent safety warnings from authorities.
The Civil Protection Department (CPD) confirmed that the fire, which broke out in the late afternoon, has now been contained. However, firefighting operations remain ongoing as crews work to fully extinguish the blaze.
In an update, the CPD reiterated its advice to the general public to avoid the area entirely due to ongoing emergency response activities and safety concerns. The department also issued a fresh reminder for residents in several localities, including Żejtun, Gudja, Għaxaq, and Birżebbuġa, to keep all doors and windows closed to protect themselves from the residual smoke and fumes.
earlier today, a police spokesperson told Newsbook Malta that a nearby establishment had caught fire and that the road towards Birżebbuġa has been closed to traffic.
While the cause of the fire is still unknown, initial reports from the scene mentioned a possible explosion. Authorities have not yet confirmed any injuries.
The Civil Protection Department extended its gratitude to the multiple agencies assisting in the operation, including Transport Malta, The Malta Police Force, Mater Dei Hospital Emergency Department, CPD Volunteers, the Emergency Fire & Rescue Unit, St John Ambulance, Rescue Malta, and private water contractors.
