A massive explosion in Beirut Lebanon that left thousands injured and killed at least 100 people has damaged around half of the city , with the cost of damage around $3billion, it was said today.
The blast sent seismic shockwaves through the city on Tuesday evening, destroying dozens of buildings and shattering windows.
It was reportedly caused by “highly explosive sodium nitrate” confiscated from a ship by Lebanese authorities and placed in one of the warehouses located near the harbour. The Beirut port manager said he had no idea of the “extent” of the “dangerous materials” .
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hassan Diab has appealed to all countries and friends of Lebanon for help in a short televised speech, saying: “We are witnessing a real catastrophe.”
