Beirut Port Explosion

Overview

On August 4, 2020, approximately 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored unsafely at Beirut's port detonated, producing one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The blast killed over 200 people, injured more than 7,000, and left an estimated 300,000 people homeless. The explosion destroyed the port and devastated surrounding neighborhoods, causing an estimated $15 billion in damage. The disaster struck a country already reeling from economic collapse, political crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals overwhelmed with casualties were themselves damaged by the blast. The explosion destroyed Beirut's main grain silos, threatening the country's food security. International aid organizations rushed to provide emergency medical care, shelter, food, and support for the displaced population.