Massive explosions rocked the Lebanese capital of Beirut killing at least 135 people and injuring 5,000 others. The explosion sent shockwaves across the city, causing widespread damage as far as the outskirts of Beirut. There were two explosions in Beirut in the afternoon, which occurred within minutes of each other. The explosions took place in the central port area of the city. Following the first blast, the fire spread to a nearby building, triggering a bigger explosion.

How powerful was the explosion?

The explosion tore through the city, flipping cars, shattering glass and causing homes to crumble. The blast even affected residents living as far as 10 kilometres away from the site. It even damaged the Baabda Palace, the residence of the Lebanese President. The blast was even felt in Cyprus, around 240 kilometres (150 miles) away, and registered as a 3.3 magnitude earthquake.

What was the cause of the Beirut blast?

The blasts were likely triggered by Ammonium Nitrate, stored in a ship near the port. Major General Abbas Ibrahim, head of Lebanon’s general security service, said, “Highly explosive materials” were stored in the buildings and these were seized by the government years ago.”

Extent of damage from the blast

An image taken by the satellite company BlackSky shows extensive damage at the port following the blast. Several warehouses appear to be flattened. Lebanon’s economy minister said that the country’s main grain silo at Beirut port was destroyed in the devastating blast along with the wheat inside, leaving the nation with less than a month’s reserves of the grain although other vessels with supplies are on the way. The blast also disabled the main entry port for imports to feed a nation of more than 6 million people. Lebanon’s state-run media reported that 90% of hotels in the Lebanese capital had been damaged. Beirut’s city governor Marwan Abboud said up to 300,000 people have lost their homes and authorities are providing them with food, water and shelter.

Incident comes at one of the worst times for the country

The blast came at a time when Lebanon’s economy is facing collapse, hit both by a financial crisis and coronavirus restrictions. Many have lost jobs, while the worth of their savings has evaporated as the currency has plunged in value against the dollar. The result has thrown many into poverty. It also comes amid rising tensions between Israel and the militant Hezbollah group along Lebanon’s southern border.