Smoke Rises from Rouen Cathedral Spire During Renovation

A plume of dark smoke was seen rising from the spire of Rouen Cathedral in Normandy, France, during renovation works. Authorities reported no casualties. The cathedral, an iconic example of French medieval gothic architecture, was evacuated and emergency services are assessing the damage.

Authorities have confirmed that the dark plume of smoke seen emanating from the spire of the Rouen Cathedral in Normandy, France, was caused by a fire during renovation works.

Earlier, panicked onlookers saw the thick smoke billowing from the scaffolding. The cathedral, dating back to the 12th century and world-renowned partly due to Claude Monet's paintings, has been evacuated. No casualties have been reported.

Emergency services have secured the perimeter around the historic site and are currently assessing the extent of the damage.

(With inputs from agencies.)