Around 100 firefighters are tackling a blaze at London’s famous Somerset House on The Strand.
London Fire Brigade said on X that 15 fire engines were at the scene.
It said the fire was in the roof and that two of the brigade’s 32m ladders had been sent to support the operation.
Video and images on social media showed a small area of roof on fire and smoke billowing out over the Thames.
“The brigade’s control officers have taken over 10 calls reporting the fire, with the first received at 11.59am,” a statement added.
“Crews from Soho, Dowgate, Islington and surrounding fire stations are attending the scene.”
The brigade said the cause of the fire is currently unknown.
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Somerset House was due to host a day of breakdancing on Saturday but has since been closed as emergency services respond to the fire.
In a statement, the historic arts centre said: “Somerset House is currently closed due to a fire which has broken out in one small part of the building.
“All staff and public are safe and the site is closed.
“The London Fire Brigade arrived swiftly and we’re working very closely with them to control the spread of the fire.”
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