Beirut explosion updates: Death toll rises after Lebanon blast - BBC News
Dozens of people have been killed and more than 3,000 injured in an explosion in the Lebanese capital.
Emergency services are at the scene of the explosion Image caption: Emergency services are at the scene of the explosion

Lebanon's Health Ministry has put out a call for medics to volunteer at the "nearest place you can get to" as hospitals face an influx of patients following the explosion.

The ministry said it had also set up an emergency hotline, which will help to coordinate rescue efforts, ensuring that those with injuries are taken to hospitals that have the capacity to treat them.

It came as Lebanon's health minister confirmed that at least 27 people were killed in the explosion, and another 2,500 injured.

The Lebanese Red Cross says it has been "overwhelmed" with calls, and there are reports that hospitals have been turning injured people away because they are too full.