Fire at Somerset House mobilizes over 125 firefighters in London.

This Saturday, the iconic Somerset House building, located in the heart of London next to the River Thames, was the scene of a concerning fire that mobilized more than 125 firefighters and a total of 20 fire engines from the capital's fire brigade. The swift response from the emergency services was crucial in controlling a blaze that threatened not only the historic structure but also the safety of the people inside. The fire broke out in a small part of the building, known for its impressive neoclassical architecture and historical significance. As the situation unfolded, dense black smoke began to rise above the rooftops, causing alarm among passersby and local residents. Firefighters, who arrived quickly at the scene, began evacuating people who were still inside, a process that extended during the early hours of the incident. Rescue teams faced not only the challenge of controlling the flames but also had to manage the crowd of onlookers gathering on the nearby bridge, eager to capture images of the spectacle. Some workers from the complex described the situation as "surprising," as the fire started without warning, forcing many to hastily exit the building where they were working. In a statement, the London Fire Brigade confirmed that there were no reports of injuries or people trapped. They also assured that the incident was being taken seriously and that firefighting operations were underway. The official account on X (formerly Twitter) of the fire brigade remained active, providing updates on the development of the fire and the emergency response. It is important to highlight that Somerset House is a Grade I listed building, which means it has significant historical and national value. Only a small percentage of buildings in the UK hold such distinction, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. This building, dating back to the 18th century and designed by architect William Chambers, has witnessed the evolution of London over the centuries and currently houses various cultural and artistic institutions. As firefighters battled the flames, traffic on the surrounding streets was affected, causing congestion in one of the busiest areas of the city. The brigade urged citizens to avoid the area to facilitate the work of emergency teams and ensure the safety of everyone involved. An investigation into the causes of the fire is underway. Fire control officers received more than ten calls related to the incident throughout the morning, highlighting the community's concern regarding the situation. It remains to be determined whether the fire was accidentally caused or if there was some form of negligence that led to it. This event not only represents a challenging episode for London's emergency services but also serves as an important reminder of the fragility of our architectural heritage. The preservation of buildings like Somerset House is essential for the cultural identity of the city and the collective memory of its inhabitants. As firefighters continue with their extinguishing and rescue efforts, the London community watches closely for the outcome of this incident. Authorities have promised to keep citizens informed about the progress of the investigation and the status of the affected building. This fire, although controlled, raises questions about the safety and care of places that are an essential part of British history and culture.