Plumes of smoke visible across Liverpool as huge fire breaks out

Thick smoke is covering the skies over Liverpool city centre this afternoon following the outbreak of a huge fire.

Pictures show black smoke visible across the Mersey and the iconic Liver building this afternoon (January 27) as people have been warned to avoid the scene. The blaze broke out on Fox Street, with a 'huge' emergency repsonse ongoing.

One reader told the Liverpool Echo the fire started in an abandoned development behind St Anne Street. You can follow live updates on the incident on their website.

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The thick smoke can be seen from as far as the Wirral, according to the Echo. A number of local public transport routes have been diverted due to the fire.

The Liverpool Echo has contacted Merseyside Fire and Rescue for further information.