Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, experienced a massive explosion yesterday
More than 70 people are dead and thousands more are injured after a massive explosion in Lebanon's capital Beirut.
It's being blamed on tonnes of fertiliser chemicals which had apparently been stored unchecked for years.
Stunning video shows explosions just minutes ago at Beirut port pic.twitter.com/ZjltF0VcTr
— Borzou Daragahi 🖊🗒 (@borzou) August 4, 2020
The blast - which saw a huge mushroom cloud rising into the sky - has destroyed much of the city's port area.
Hospitals are overwhelmed - they were already at capacity because of rising coronavirus cases in the country.
Irish citizens in Lebanon are being urged to shelter in place until they can move safely.
People are also advised to follow the instructions of Lebanese authorities.
The Embassy is aware of an explosion in Beirut this evening. Irish citizens who may require assistance should contact the Embassy. We advise all citizens to shelter in place until they can move safely. We also advise that you follow the instructions of Lebanese authorities. pic.twitter.com/8dJ6xGGleK
— Embassy of Ireland Cairo (@IRLEmbCairo) August 4, 2020
Footage posted on social media showed the moment a building several storeys high exploded.
The resulting shockwave was felt as far away as Cyprus - more than 200km away.
Pictures also showed a scene of devastation with cars upturned and emergency crews gathered around the gutted building.
AP Photo/Bilal HusseinThe explosion appeared to be centred around the city's port area containing warehouses, and rippled through several areas of the capital.
Main image: unreguser/Xinhua News Agency/PA Images
