?Everything is burning, nothing will remain from the frame.? This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
A massive fire broke out at Notre Dame Cathedral in central Paris at 6:50 pm local time, according to French fire department and police officials. Billowing smoke could be seen across the city as flames leapt from the cathedral?s two bell towers.
The deputy mayor of Paris says Notre Dame Cathedral has suffered ?colossal damages? and Notre Dame spokesman Andre Finot told French media: ?Everything is burning, nothing will remain from the frame.?
According to Reuters, a major operation is currently underway to fight the fire, with at least 400 firefighters on the scene fighting the fire from inside and out. At 9:00 pm local time the AP News is reporting that the fire has spread to at least one of the church?s landmark rectangular towers. Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo posted the following on Twitter:
A terrible fire is underway at the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. The Paris fire department is in the process of trying to control the flames. We are in close contact with the Arch Bishop of Paris. I ask that everyone respect the security perimeter.
Photos on social media show that the iconic spire is on fire and has collapsed, and the height of the flames has hindered the efforts of firefighters. There are currently no reports of any injuries.
According to France 24, the ?roof has entirely collapsed and there are flames coming out of the back of the cathe...