A large fire broke out this Thursday in Beirut, the capital of Lebanon, near the port area where a huge explosion caused more than 190 deaths a month ago and about 6,500 injured.
The fire, whose causes were not immediately clear, caused panic among residents of the affected area, still traumatized by the August tragedy, which was caused by the detonation of nearly 3,000 tons of ammonium nitrates.
[Beirut struggles to climb out of the rubble. Rescuers recover bodies after the explosion that has left more than 150 dead]
A column of black smoke rose from the harbor at noon, orange flames leaping from the ground.
The Lebanese army said the fire broke out in a warehouse where oil and tires are placed in the port's free zone, adding that the attempt to put it out continues.
Army helicopters participate in the operation.
Beirut tries to rise up after brutal explosion that left thousands homeless
Aug. 7, 202001: 13
A video that has circulated on social media shows port workers fleeing in fright as soon as the fire broke out, a chilling reminder of last month's explosion.
In that case, dozens of port employees were killed.
Windows, doors and walls were smashed miles away.
News in development. Check back for more updates.
With information from The Associated Press.