Our hearts reach out to the people of Beirut after the devastating ammonium nitrate explosion on August 4, 2020. We hope there was not an instigator behind it, but time will have to tell. The Lebanese people have lived through periods of instability and conflict for decades. We investigated the COVID-19 situation in the Lebanese Republic as we wondered what will happen now.
COVID-19 Situation in the Lebanese Republic Had Been Improving
The situation seemed stable in the country prior to the Beirut explosion. The Ministry of Health had confirmed a total 5,062 Coronavirus cases, and 65 deaths the day before. However, a lockdown of non-essential businesses was continuing ,with religious services and public events forbidden.
The SARS-Cov-2 virus arrived in the Lebanese Republic in very early spring. Summer there lasts from June to September when it enjoys a humid mediterranean climate. But this becomes cool and rainy during winter, while the mountainous inland experiences freezing temperatures at night. We can only guess the impact of colder winter weather on the COVID-19 situation in the Lebanese Republic when it arrives.
How the 2020 Beirut Disaster May Affect the City’s Future
Beirut is one of the areas worst-affected by the Lebanon COVID pandemic. Moreover, Al Jazeera previously reported a country-wide shortage of test kits, with undocumented migrants having no access to testing. But the explosion has laid Beirut open to a spike in infections, with three hospitals destroyed and many clinics damaged.
Beirut has always been the pearl in Lebanon’s crown. It is one of the oldest cities in the world, with human habitation stretching back 5,000 years. It rejoiced in the name ‘Paris of the East’ when tourists took summer on its wide beaches. And strolled through its wide boulevards among fine buildings.
Today, it lies exposed after an explosion ripped its heart out. Its healthcare resources are stretched to the limit. We hope, we pray the COVID-19 situation in the Lebanese Republic does not stretch these beyond what they can stand. This is an early opportunity to watch the virus spread during an unrelated disaster.
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Preview Image: ‘A Heart for Beirut’
