Blaze Erupts in Rouen's Historic Cathedral Amid Renovations

Firefighters controlled a blaze on the spire of Rouen's historic cathedral in northern France. The fire, reminiscent of the Notre-Dame incident, prompted a swift response from 40 fire engines and emergency services. The cathedral, under renovation, avoided major damage. Officials now assess the risk to artworks from water damage.

Firefighters extinguished a blaze on the spire of Rouen's historic cathedral in northern France on Thursday, averting a disaster reminiscent of the Notre-Dame fire in Paris. Thick smoke billowed into the sky as 40 fire engines and emergency workers quickly cordoned off the area.

The spire, under renovation and encased in scaffolding, ignited about 120 meters above ground. Bystanders, including witness Patrick Waeselynck, watched in horror as flames and black smoke enveloped the cathedral's skyline. Emergency workers promptly arrived and established a security perimeter.

Local officials are now assessing the risk of water damage to the cathedral and its artworks. The incident follows a series of fires in historic European buildings, underscoring the vulnerabilities during renovations.