A fire has broken out at the historic Notre Dame cathedral in Paris.
Officials said the fire may be linked to renovation work, French media reported.
Photos and videos on social media show the roof of the 850-year-old Gothic building covered in flames, issuing a plume of smoke above the city.
The Paris fire brigade can be seen in videos dousing the blaze with water.
US President Donald Trump suggested on Twitter that the fire was put out with "flying water tankers".
"So horrible to watch the massive fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris," he wrote.
"Perhaps flying water tankers could be used to put it out. Must act quickly!"
Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo described it as a "terrible fire" and urged people at the scene to stay safe.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel