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One hundred and twenty-five firefighters are currently tackling a blaze at Somerset House in Central London. Crews - across 20 fire engines - rushed to the scene at around noon and the cause of the fire is unknown.
The incident is causing traffic congestion in an already busy area, and London Fire Brigade (LFB) has warned people of disruption. Somerset House is a large Renaissance complex which hosts different events throughout the year, such as the famous ice rink at wintertime.
The blaze is so intense that crews will be at the scene until tomorrow.
An LFB spokesperson said: "Twenty fire engines and around 125 firefighters have been deployed to a fire at Somerset House.
"Crews are tackling flames located in part of the building's roof. A number of staff and visitors safely left Somerset House before the Brigade arrived."
Borough Commander Ben King, who is at the scene, said: "Crews have been working incredibly hard through the very hot weather and heat of the fire to bring the fire under control and protect Somerset House.
"Four of the Brigade’s aerial ladders, including a 64 metre turntable ladder, have been deployed to support firefighters at the scene."
"The entire site at Somerset House is now closed to the public whilst firefighters tackle the fire. Traffic in the surrounding area will be impacted as crews respond.
"The Brigade's 999 Control Officers have taken more than 30 calls reporting the fire with the first received at 1159. Crews from Soho, Dowgate, Islington and surrounding fire stations are attending the scene.
"The cause of the fire is not yet known."
A Met Police spokesperson said: "Police were called at 12.25pm on Saturday, August 17, to reports of a fire at Somerset House, Strand, WC2. Officers and London Fire Brigade attended.
"Road closures have been established while fire-fighters work at the scene. There are no reported injuries and no persons thought to be inside the premises.
"Emergency services remain on scene."
A TfL spokesperson said: "Bus services aren't impacted, and Victoria Embankment is closed as is Cycleway three."