The aftermath

BEIRUT, LEBANON, 5 AUGUST

On 4 August, a blast from tonnes of ammonium nitrate destroyed a large part of Beirut. Ammonium nitrate is mostly found in fertilisers, but can be used to create explosives.

As it’s relatively safe when stored securely, it’s unclear exactly what caused the explosion. The material may have been contaminated over time and subsequent contact with a fire resulted in the massive blast.

Beyond the death toll (believed to be 204 people) and physical damage, the nitrogen oxide gases released by the blast could lead to respiratory irritation and air pollution.