SPAIN – Explosion at Granada ammunition factory sends huge smoke cloud over city, injuring workers

November 2, 2026

Residents across Granada were startled by a powerful explosion shortly before 9am on Friday, October 30, as a mushroom-shaped cloud of smoke rose above the city. Several employees at a historic ammunition factory were subsequently treated for hearing-related injuries. However, the exact cause of the incident remains unknown.

Explosion reported in the factory’s restricted burning zone

Emergency services started receiving reports at approximately 8:57am, with Andalucía’s emergency coordination centre, 112, recording more than 30 calls about a loud explosion in El Fargue, an area of Granada where the Fábrica de Municiones de Granada (FMG) is located.

Initial information suggests the blast occurred in the facility’s quemadero, an area used to burn and dispose of waste gunpowder. Police have described the location as a highly restricted section of the site.

The explosion caused a noticeable shockwave in surrounding residential areas, while the sound was reportedly heard in locations further away, including La Zubia and Fuente Vaqueros.

Workers treated for hearing injuries following blast

Initial police statements confirmed that two employees had sustained minor injuries, mainly affecting their hearing. However, the trade union UGT reported that three workers were injured, while some local media outlets suggested the figure could be as high as four.

Those affected were transported to Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves in Granada for medical assessment.

Fortunately, no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported. Emergency responders also indicated that nearby residential properties had not suffered significant structural damage.

Spain