Beirut Update and Sincere Thanks

The INSARAG network has once again proven its speed and flexibility, in responding to the devastating explosion that happened in Beirut on 4 August. The blast caused more than 100 deaths and at least 4,000 injured, according to early reports. 200,000 people have been left homeless and hundreds are still missing. INSARAG teams from 13 countries have or are currently in the process of deploying to Lebanon to support search and rescue operations. A USAR Coordination Cell has been established to coordinate international teams. The ICMS has been activated and relevant information will be continuously updated on the Virtual OSOCC. An 14 strong UNDAC Team is currently deploying to support response operations and will shortly be joined by IHP and operational partners.

The INSARAG Secretariat highly values the immediate and flexible deployment of teams despite the still ongoing COVID-19 crisis and would like to thank USAR Teams and their Focal Points at country and regional level for their efforts.