A major fire started this afternoon in the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, one of the world's most visited historic landmarks.
The fire was confirmed by multiple sources, including the CBC, and can also be seen in numerous social media posts. The cause is undetermined so far - but is thought to be accidental. Renovation work was underway at the cathedral, and several sections were under scaffolding.
Shocking images posted during the fire revealed massive damage. The fire appears to have engulfed most of the building's upper structure as well as the towers, from which smoke could be seen billowing.
Video by @gl0be_trotter
Photo by @wonguy974
The church's spire also appears to have collapsed due to the fire.
Video by @patrickgaley
According to French media and the Paris Fire Department, the fire may have started under the roof, where renovation work was underway. We are now hearing reports that the entire roof structure, along with the spire, has collapsed.
More updates will come as they become available.