A blaze has erupted at Somerset House, a historic landmark in central London, with firefighters currently on the scene working to contain the fire. The incident has caused smoke to rise over the building's roof, prompting the deployment of around 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines from the London Fire Brigade.
The fire crews are focusing their efforts on extinguishing flames in a section of the building's roof, utilizing two 32-meter ladders to combat the blaze. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time, leading to the closure of Somerset House to the public as firefighting operations continue.
Somerset House, originally constructed in the 1500s and later rebuilt in the 1700s, holds significant historical importance. In 1604, the Treaty of London was signed within its walls, marking the end of the Anglo-Spanish War.
Today, Somerset House serves as a venue for various creative events and exhibitions. It houses the Courtauld Gallery, which features renowned works by artists such as Manet, Van Gogh, and Monet. Additionally, King's College London's school of law is located in the complex's east wing.
Notably, a dance battle event was scheduled to take place at Somerset House's open-air courtyard on Saturday, featuring showcases, workshops, live DJs, and a dance competition. Fortunately, all staff and visitors are reported to be safe, and the site has been closed to ensure safety.
Somerset House has expressed gratitude for the swift response of the London Fire Brigade and emphasized their close collaboration to manage the fire effectively. The situation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
