Smoke near Paris City Hall! A fire broke out at around 8:45 a.m. this Tuesday, June 25, in a building on rue de la Verrerie, in the 4th arrondissement, in the heart of the capital. According to Ariel Weil, mayor of the 4th arrondissement, it required a major intervention by the Paris fire department. A dozen fire trucks were mobilized to fight the flames. "Please avoid the area so as not to hinder the work of the emergency services", added the elected official on social network X.
A security perimeter was quickly established by the police, while a dozen fire trucks responded to the scene. The famous BHV Marais department store had to close its doors and evacuate its occupants due to the proximity of the flames.
The fire quickly spread to the second floors of the building on rue Verrerie. By mid-morning, a plume of smoke was billowing from the second floor, and flames were visible on the second floor of the six-storey building.
The staff of the BHV Marais, located directly opposite the site of the fire, were evacuated to a nearby building, while the department store remained closed for safety reasons. The Brigade des sapeurs-pompiers de Paris (BSPP) was contacted for further information, but has not yet been able to provide an assessment of the damage.
The fire caused major disruption in this historic district of Paris. The BHV Marais, a popular landmark and shopping destination, had to close its doors, causing a significant interruption to its commercial activities. Local authorities reacted immediately to secure the area and ensure the safety of residents and passers-by.
Witnesses on the scene described a scene of relative chaos, with local residents and workers quickly evacuated."I saw the flames from my window and knew right away that it was serious," said a local resident. "The fire department arrived very quickly, but it's impressive to see a fire so close to such an iconic location."
Traffic in the area was also disrupted, with roads blocked to allow access for emergency crews. Municipal authorities advised local residents to avoid the area and follow safety guidelines.
As firefighters continue to intervene, questions remain as to the cause of the blaze. Investigations will probably be carried out to determine the origin of the fire and to assess the safety measures in place in the affected building.
In the meantime, the situation remains under close surveillance and local authorities continue to work to minimize the impact on the community and surrounding businesses. Residents and shopkeepers are urged to remain vigilant and keep abreast of developments via official channels.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of fire prevention and safety measures, especially in densely populated and busy areas such as the Marais. The Paris authorities are emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and effective preparation for such events.
Location
BHV Marais
52 Rue de Rivoli
75004 Paris 4
Access
Metro 1 and 11 Hôtel de Ville
