Location: Beirut
Event: We are closely following reports of an explosion at or near the Port of Beirut on August 4.
We encourage citizens in the affected area(s) to monitor local news, follow the emergency instructions provided by local authorities, enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program at step.state.gov to receive important emergency information, and follow us on Twitter and Facebook for additional updates. There are reports of toxic gases released in the explosion so all in the area should stay indoors and wear masks if available.
We urge U.S. citizens in the affected areas who are safe to contact their loved ones directly and/or update their status on social media. If you are in the affected area and need immediate emergency services, please contact local authorities; police can be contacted at 112, civil defense at 125, and the Lebanese Red Cross at 140. We urge U.S. citizens to avoid the affected areas/shelter in place and follow the directions of local authorities. The welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad is one of the highest priorities of the Department of State. We will continue to provide information to U.S. citizens in the area through Alerts, our Embassy website, and travel.state.gov. U.S. citizens with verifiable emergencies may contact BeirutACS@state.gov.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid the area of the incident if possible
- Monitor local media and our Embassy website for updates
- Review your personal security plans
- Have travel documents up to date and easily accessible
- Read what the U.S. Government Can & Can’t Do in a Crisis
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Beirut, Lebanon
+961-4-542600 or +961-4-543600
BeirutACS@state.gov
https://lb.usembassy.gov/ - U.S. Department of State – Consular Affairs
+1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
For further detailed information regarding travel and security in Lebanon:
- Visit the State Department’s travel website Travel.State.Gov to review the Lebanon Travel Advisory, Country-Specific Information for Lebanon, and the Worldwide Caution.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)to receive the latest security updates and make it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.
- Follow the U.S. Embassy in Beirut on Twitter and Facebook
