London‘s iconic Somerset House is on fire – with 10 fire engines and 70 firefighters at the scene as smoke pours from its roof.

Video shared on social media showed dark smoke pouring from the building’s western edge alongside Waterloo Bridge.

The cause of the fire is not yet known – but traffic at the bridge and along Victoria Embankment is at a standstill as the blaze is tackled with urgency.

The London Fire Brigade said dozens of firefighters were at the scene. 

It said in a statement: ‘Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters have been deployed to a fire at Somerset House.

‘Two of the Brigade’s 32m ladders have been sent to the scene to support firefighting operations. Traffic in the surrounding area will be impacted as crews respond.

‘The Brigade’s Control Officers have taken over ten 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.’

This is a breaking story – more to follow.