On 4th August, the capital city of Lebanon, Beirut experienced a massive explosion, reportedly caused by 2,750 tons of seized ammonium nitrate. The explosion killed over 137 people and injured over 5,000.
According to officials, the explosion was caused by a fire started by welders who were working in the building where the ammonium nitrate was stored. Reports of ‘negligence’ in removing said chemical have come out.
Due to the impact, some suspected the explosion was nuclear in nature. However, the theory has hence been proven incorrect.
A two-week emergency has been declared in the city, whilst civilians and officials come to terms with the aftermath of the explosion.
Losses from the blast are estimated to be between $10 billion to $15 billion, Beirut Gov Marwan Abboud has said.
Hospitals are overwhelmed with patients, with reports emerging of doctors treating people in car parks.
Rescue teams continue search operations, looking for people who could be stuck under the rubble.
(Published 06 August 2020, 13:59 IST)