On 4 August 2020 at approximately 18h00 local time, a warehouse at the Beirut Port containing large quantities of ammonium nitrate exploded. After an initial explosion, a subsequent blast caused widespread destruction, with reports of damage more than 20 kilometers from the port
area. The explosions and ensuing fires reportedly released toxic materials in the environment.
This OCHA Business Guide on the Beirut Port Explosions offers an overview of the crisis and different ways for the private sector to provide support.