A fire has broken out in Belfast city centre, with smoke pouring from the Babel rooftop bar as roads around the hotel are closed.
Firefighters are tackling the large blaze in the centre of the city, after they were called at 4:36pm this afternoon.
The fire is centred in the rooftop Babel bar, which is apart of the Bullitt Hotel complex on the road, Belfast Live reported.
All staff were evacuated from the bar and the surrounding roads have been shut to protect the public from the fire.
A Police Service of Northern Ireland spokesman said: "Motorists are advised that Victoria Street, Belfast city centre, is currently closed due to a fire in the area and will remain closed for the next number of hours.
"Motorists are advised to make alternative travel arrangements and avoid the area at this time.
"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service are currently in attendance."
The fire service confirmed their attendance to the blaze along with a number of fire along with "one Fire Appliance each from Cadogan Fire Station, Central Fire Station and Springfield Fire Station, along with two Fire Appliances each from Whitla Fire Station and one aerial Appliance are in attendance."
They added the incident was ongoing.
In a statement, Babel said: "We can confirm a fire has broken out at the hotel. Thankfully all guests and staff have been evacuated safely. Huge thanks to the emergency services for such a quick response.
"We are currently awaiting further details."
Colin Neill, Chief Executive of Hospitality Ulster, also confirmed the fire was at the Babel rooftop bar.
He said: "The news of a fire at the Babel Rooftop Bar of the Bullitt Hotel is devastating news.
"We understand that the emergency services are currently dealing with the blaze. Hospitality Ulster will do all we can to support the management and staff as the situation evolves."
Public transport providers have warned of heavy disruption in the area.
Translink said: "Due to a fire on Victoria Street, Metro and Glider services will be subject to diversion and heavy delay/disruption.
A terrifying video of the blaze posted on social media showed flames roaring above the bar as thick smoke billowed into the air.
The tweet captioned wrote: "Oh dear .... Babel bar and restaurant on fire in Belfast."
