Video: London's historic Somerset House closed indefinitely after major fire incident

London's Somerset House, a historic arts venue, was closed indefinitely after a major fire incident on Saturday (Aug 17).The London Fire Brigade (LFB)said it rushed over 100 firefighters and more than a dozen fire engines to the sceneafter receiving a call just before noon (local time). Within hours, the blaze was contained.

No injuries were reported. All artworks were reported to be safe as the fire affected a secluded pocket of the building.

The LFB said the cause of the fire was not identified yet.

Videos posted on social media platform X showed smoke rising from the roof of the building. The Metropolitan Police said there were no reports of casualties.

Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have now been sent in response to the fire at #SomersetHouse.

Crews are tackling a fire located in part of the buildings roof https://t.co/jDdNzqxt6z — London Fire Brigade (@LondonFire) August 17, 2024

Somerset House posted on X that the site was closed ahead of a breakdancing event in the evening.

"Owing to a fire in one small part of Somerset House, the site is currently closed. London Battle and other events today will not take place. We apologise for any inconvenience," thearts venue wrote.

The London Ambulance Service earlier asked people to avoid the area as heavy smoke billowed in the air. The authorities have urged the residents and local businesses to keep their windows closed.

Fire at Somerset House in London right now. Stay clear of the area. @FinancialTimes @TheSun @BBCBreaking pic.twitter.com/ufGk4Gd4Ss — Pravin (@PravinChatt) August 17, 2024

Traffic in the area was also affected, reportedLFB."Traffic in the surrounding area will be impacted as crews respond," it said in a statement.

Somerset House wasthe official residence of the Queen of England for much of the 17th century.

(With inputs from agencies)