On 4 August a large explosion occurred in the port of Beirut, killing over 200 people and injuring over 5,000. The cause of the blast is pending investigation but has been attributed to 2,750 tons of ammonium nitrate which was inadequately stored in port warehouses.
A number of sectors of Greater Beirut are affected, some of which are home to vulnerable, poor, migrant workers or refugee communities. Homes and businesses, including restaurants, bars, and hotels have been lost. Up to 300,000 people could have lost their homes.
The explosion takes place while Lebanon faces a deep economic crisis and rising COVID-19 cases. Protests based on mistrust of the Lebanese government and overall administration have been taking place for months in Beirut city, prompting the Government to step down on 10 August 2020.
This report presents a comprehensive review of secondary and primary data available on areas affected by the Beirut port blast as of 12 August 2020.
