Local news reports, official statements from authorities

Fire Erupts in Spire of Rouen's Notre Dame Cathedral in Normandy, Evacuated

Jul 11, 2024, 11:10 AM

A fire has erupted in the spire of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Rouen, Normandy, France. The incident occurred during renovation works, and local authorities have evacuated the cathedral and established a security cordon. The fire, which started around 10:38 AM on July 11, 2024, has led to thick black smoke billowing from the spire. The nearly 1,000-year-old Gothic cathedral, a significant cultural heritage site, is at risk. No victims have been reported so far, and the extent of the damage remains unknown. Emergency services, including local emergency officials, are currently battling to control the blaze. The spire was undergoing work that involved large scaffolding structures, and BFM TV footage showed smoke still visible within the scaffolding.