Several streets were evacuated following a huge gas explosion in a residential building in the centre of Paris.
Smoke was seen rising above an apartment block in the middle of the city shortly after 12.30pm local time Friday (11.30am UK time).
BREAKING: Huge explosion in Paris, according to reports pic.twitter.com/cnTchMkqBu
— Scott Campbell (@scottcampbell) April 1, 2016
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The explosion reportedly took place not far from Montparnasse, on the left bank of the river Seine, and close to Ferrandi college
According to local media the explosion was triggered by a severed gas pipe.
It is not yet known how many people have been injured but pictures show extensive damage to at least one building.
Firefighters and Ambulances have been deployed to the scene.
Violente explosion dans un immeuble du 6eme arrondissement de Paris. pic.twitter.com/QGqlt3ImtO
— Pierre K. (@Pierre_Kch) April 1, 2016
Niamh Harris