Aridi Considers Storm Repercussions 'Under Control'

Transportation and Public Works Minister Ghazi al-Aridi considered on Wednesday that the damage caused by the storm is “under control,” blaming the chaos across Lebanon to the “shortage in capacities” and growth in negligence.

“In comparison with the strength of the storm, we were able to control the damage... We have mobilized all the available capabilities to open the blocked roads and facilitate traffic,” Aridi said in comments to Voice of Lebanon radio (93.3).

The minister pointed out that the Beirut southern suburb of Hay al-Sellom suffered the most damages by the storm.

“It is a disaster due to the population in that area,” Aridi pointed out.

Flood waters from al-Ghadir River invaded homes and shops, turning the streets into ponds and wreaking havoc in the impoverished area.

Around 2,000 residential units and a large number of shops are built on the river's banks, according to state-run National News Agency.

Aridi revealed that several areas witnessed landslides including al-Joumhour, Baabda, Aasoun, Denniyeh, Qmatiye and other towns, which blocked the roads.

The minister expressed regret as no emergency commission has been formed yet, calling on the government to swiftly accomplish this step in order to prevent such disasters from occurring.

The storm which entered on Wednesday it's third day pounded Lebanon with fierce winds and torrential rain causing severe power cuts in several areas, the obstruction of a number of roads with snow and landslides. The snow had also isolated remote villages.