2020 Beirut explosion facts for kids
The aftermath of the explosion.
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| Date | 4 August 2020 |
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| Location | Beirut, Lebanon |
| Coordinates | 33°54′10.62″N 35°31′4.04″E / 33.9029500°N 35.5177889°E |
| Deaths | 204+ |
| Non-fatal injuries | 6,500+ |
| Missing | 9+ |
| Property damage | $10-15 billion |
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On August 4, 2020, a huge explosion rocked the city of Beirut. Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon.
The blast happened at the Port of Beirut. It sadly killed at least 204 people. More than 6,500 people were hurt. Many others went missing. The Governor of Beirut, Marwan Abboud, said that over 300,000 people lost their homes.
Contents
What Caused the Explosion?
The explosion was likely caused by 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate. Ammonium nitrate is a chemical substance. It is often used as fertilizer to help plants grow. However, it can also be used to make explosives.
How Ammonium Nitrate Was Stored
The government had taken this ammonium nitrate from a ship. The ship was called the MV Rhosus. It had been left at the port because it was not safe to travel. The chemical was then stored in a warehouse at the port. It had been there for at least six years.
Dangers of Ammonium Nitrate
Storing ammonium nitrate needs special care. It does not burn by itself. But it makes fires much, much worse. It should not be kept near things that can easily catch fire. Also, it should not be heated in a closed space. It is very sensitive to changes in temperature.
The Fire Before the Blast
Before the huge explosion, there was a fire in a part of the warehouse. This area stored fireworks. The ammonium nitrate was kept in the same building. This fire might have led to the much bigger explosion.
How Powerful Was the Blast?
The explosion was incredibly powerful. Experts compared it to three thousand tonnes of TNT. TNT is a very strong explosive. This shows just how massive the blast was.
Help from Around the World
After the disaster, many countries offered help. They sent medical aid and rescue teams. They also gave money to help Beirut recover. This support was very important for the people affected.
Images for kids
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The S. Dagher Building was badly damaged. It was across from the port's entrance.
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The Port of Beirut seen from the International Space Station a week after the explosion. You can see the large crater (top left).
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United States Air Force Medical Services brought supplies to help.
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A Dutch urban search and rescue team on their way to Beirut on August 5, 2020.
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Tel Aviv City Hall lit up with the colors of the Lebanese flag on August 5, 2020.
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Azadi Tower also lit up with the colors of the Lebanese flag on August 6, 2020.
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See also
In Spanish: Explosiones en el puerto de Beirut de 2020 para niños
