17 Aug 2021 | 08:05 PM UTC
Lebanon: Authorities responding to fire at power plant in Beirut late Aug. 17
Emergency response ongoing as of late Aug. 17 following a fire at a power station in Beirut, Lebanon. Avoid the area.
Event
Emergency crews are responding to a fire at a power station in Beirut near Al-Khashekji Mosque late Aug. 17. There have been no immediate reports of casualties. Authorities have not specified the cause of the blaze.
Increased security, as well as localized transport disruptions, are likely near the incident site. Authorities have evacuated buildings in the area as a precaution. Lingering disruptions are possible after crews extinguish the fire as investigations and recovery operations continue.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities have extinguished the fire and given the all-clear. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the scene. Allow additional time to reach destinations in the affected area through at least the evening of Aug. 17. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure.
