Major explosions rock Beirut, causing widespread damage and casualties

Al-Monitor Staff

Aug 4, 2020

A picture shows the scene of a huge explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital Beirut on August 4, 2020. - A large explosion rocked the Lebanese capital Beirut on August 4, an AFP correspondent said. The blast, which rattled entire buildings and broke glass, was felt in several parts of the city. (Photo by Janine HAIDAR / AFP) (Photo by JANINE HAIDAR/AFP via Getty Images) — A picture shows the scene of a huge explosion that rocked the Lebanese capital Beirut on Aug. 4, 2020. — JANINE HAIDAR/AFP via Getty Images

Large explosions hit Beirut today, causing extensive damage and thousands of casualties. The incident comes at a horrible time for Lebanon, which is already dealing with an economic crisis.

At around 6:00 pm local time, a massive explosion took place in Beirut’s port, sending shockwaves across the city. The blast occurred near the Lebanese capital’s downtown, causing massive destruction reminiscent of a war zone in the vicinity. There was also damage several miles outside of Beirut.