Clips shared on social media display massive orange flames and dense black smoke rising from the building located on Princes Street, right in the center of the city.

Edinburgh firefighters are actively combating a significant fire at a historic department store this Thursday.

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According to a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service representative, the department received notifications about the blaze inside the building around 2:50 am on Thursday morning.

They added that crews spent the morning controlling and putting out the fire, and are currently working on cooling down remaining hotspots.

«Operations Control dispatched six fire engines and two elevated platform units along with supplementary support to the location,» the representative stated, noting that firefighters might stay at the site «for an extended period».

No injuries have been reported so far. Certain roads have been closed, and both motorists and pedestrians have been urged to steer clear of the vicinity.

Videos circulating online show large orange flames and thick black smoke billowing above the building, situated on Princes Street, a primary thoroughfare in the heart of Scotland’s capital.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, Police Scotland confirmed.

In response to the incident on X, Anas Sarwar, leader of the Scottish Labour Party, expressed gratitude towards the firefighters for their efforts.

«Harrowing scenes from Edinburgh,» he posted. «Sincere thanks to the Fire and Rescue Service for the courageous work they are performing».

Criterion Capital, the building’s owner, had intended to convert it into a Zedwell hotel.

In a statement released to British media on Thursday, Criterion emphasized that its «immediate priority» remains the «safety of all individuals involved».

«No injuries have been reported to date, and we are coordinating with emergency responders and relevant authorities to provide necessary support,» the company confirmed.