Residents in Hackney have been urged to remain indoors and shut their windows after a fire sent clouds of black smoke into the sky.
More than a dozen fire engines and around 100 firefighters attended the scene after reports of “significant amounts of smoke” coming from a four-storey block of flats in Dalston, north east London.
One person was treated for smoke inhalation but no other injuries were reported, said the London Fire Brigade.
Some people were taken to a nearby church while firefighters tackled the fire.
Residents said the blaze was “devastating” for the community.
Hackney fire. Pic: PA
Rosie Speirs said the scene “was so horrible to see”.
She added: “The smoke was visible from all areas of Hackney and filled the surrounding streets with a dark fog.
“I am praying everyone has a safe warm place to stay tonight.”
In a statement, the London Fire Brigade said: “Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have been at the scene of a fire on Dalston Lane in Hackney.
“Part of a four-storey block of flats, including the roof, was alight. The fire has been producing significant amounts of smoke and people in the area were advised to keep windows and doors closed.
“The fire has now been brought under control by firefighters but crews will remain on scene throughout the evening fully extinguishing the fire and dampening down.”
The cause of the fire was under investigation.