Lebanon battling to fight deadly wildfires

JOSEPH EID / AFP

Beirut has deployed water cannons and appealed to neighbouring states for help after wildfires swept across Lebanon, killing at least one person.

According to the local civil defence, 104 fires had broken out over the past 24 hours, and evacuation orders in place to minimise the toll.

At least 18 people have been hospitalised so far and 88 have received emergency medical care, Lebanon's Red Cross added.

The cause of the flames remains unknown, though some officials blamed it on the recent heatwave.

Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri said an investigation would be opened and if arson were uncovered the perpetrators would "pay a price". 

More from International News

On Virgin Radio today

Trending on Virgin Radio

  • BRED Abu Dhabi

    BRED Abu Dhabi, Presented by Hypebeast, is back April 24-28 in Yas Bay. The line up is next level and locked in.

  • The Kris Fade Show Podcast

    Not in the car so much while Kris, Priti and Rossi are on air? Check out the daily podcast here...

  • Untold Dubai

    It arrived: The UAE's First Mega Music Festival at Expo City Dubai!

  • Ed Sheeran - UAE EXCLUSIVE

    Latest album, what happened with BTS, raising a baby girl, eye surgery, and more!