20 Feb 2024 | 09:05 AM UTC
Lebanon: Building collapse in Shoueifat, south of Beirut, overnight Feb. 19-20
Four killed and six injured in building collapse, south of Beirut, Lebanon, Feb. 19-20; rescue operations concluded; evacuations ongoing.
Four people were killed and six injured after a four-story residential building collapsed in Shoueifat El Aamroussieh, south of Beirut around 21:00 Feb. 19. Emergency services responded to the incident; rescue operations reportedly concluded around 03:00 Feb. 20. Heavy rainfall and poor structural integrity are allegedly the cause of the collapse. Authorities stated that the building was unsafe, and the municipality ordered its evacuation two years ago. However, around 30 Syrian laborers were still renting apartments despite the orders.
Authorities have ordered the evacuation of buildings on both sides of the collapsed unit. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely throughout Feb. 20. Authorities could evacuate additional buildings near the incident site as a precaution. Localized business disruptions may occur.
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Heed all official transport and security instructions, including any evacuation orders. Plan for localized traffic congestion in nearby areas; allow additional time to reach destinations.
