Torrential rains in Lebanon's capital cause heavy flood, submerging roads, cars

By Naim Berjawi

BEIRUT (AA) – Torrential rains in Lebanon's capital triggered a heavy flood in the Beirut River, submerging dozens of cars and trapping people inside their vehicles as well as in several residential buildings.

Dozens of cars were submerged in torrential rainwaters at the Al-Dora-Karantina intersection, east of Beirut after torrential rains hit the capital after midnight on Friday, the official Lebanese National News Agency reported on Saturday.

Flood waters almost completely submerge dozens of cars, including a fire truck, in video clips widely circulated on social media platforms.

So far, no fatalities have been reported as rescuers have pulled several people from vehicles stranded in floodwaters.

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati has directed relevant departments to expedite work to deal with the situation and limit the damage caused by the rain and subsequent flooding in Beirut, the news agency said, citing a statement issued by the premier's office.

"It appears that the waters of the Beirut River did not flow towards the sea due to the failure to clean its course, which resulted in water flooding towards the Karantina area," Public Works Minister Ali Hamieh was quoted as saying by the media outlet.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense also said in a separate statement that its members rescued citizens who were trapped inside their cars and residential buildings.

Lebanon has been experiencing a tropical depression since Thursday evening, resulting in low temperatures, heavy rain, and strong winds reaching speeds of 90 kilometers (56 miles) per hour.

* Writing by Ikram Kouachi