Over 100 Firefighters Battle Blaze at Somerset House
A massive fire broke out at London’s historic Somerset House on Saturday, drawing over 100 firefighters to the scene. Flames and thick smoke were seen rising from the roof of the iconic neoclassical building, which serves as an arts center in the heart of the city. The London Fire Brigade deployed 15 fire engines to tackle the blaze.
Cause of the Fire Remains Unclear
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire, which was first reported at 11:59 a.m. local time. Firefighters quickly moved to contain the flames, focusing their efforts on the roof. Two 32-meter ladders were brought in to support the firefighting operations, allowing crews to reach the elevated areas of the building.
Somerset House Closed, Surrounding Traffic Affected
As a precaution, Somerset House was immediately closed to the public. Traffic around the area is expected to be heavily impacted as emergency services work to manage the situation. The fire disrupted scheduled events at the venue, including a breakdancing showcase that was planned for the day.
Swift Response Ensures Public Safety
In a statement, Somerset House officials confirmed that all staff and visitors were safely evacuated. They praised the London Fire Brigade for their swift response and close cooperation in containing the fire. Videos circulating on social media captured the dramatic scene, showing smoke billowing over London’s skyline.
Firefighting Efforts Ongoing
As firefighters continue to battle the blaze, the extent of the damage remains uncertain. The incident has drawn significant attention, given Somerset House’s cultural importance and its location in central London. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the investigation into the cause of the fire progresses.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Washington Post
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