Firefighting crews are battling to extinguish a building blaze in the centre of Newry.
Police have urged motorists to avoid the Albert Basin, Quays area as a result.
A PSNI spokesperson said: "Motorists are asked to avoid the vicinity of the Albert Basin, Quays area of Newry due to an ongoing fire in the area. Please seek an alternative route for your journey."
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service rallied to the scene around 6.30pm.
A NIFRS spokesperson told Belfast Live they have scrambled three appliances, a turntable and 18 crew to fight the blaze.
"It's a report of a derelict building on fire - it's in the middle of the town," they added.
SDLP MLA Justin McNulty said: "Up to three NIFRS appliances and around a dozen Firefighters are currently dealing with a large fire at what is believed to be a council owned shed on the Albert Basin site which the Newry to Carlingford Greenway runs parallel to.
"Police have temporarily closed the greenway to both pedestrians and cyclists and are asking people to avoid the area until the thick smoke clears. Your SDLP are currently on scene liaising with all agencies. I hope everyone is OK."
Newry SDLP posted: "NIFRS and other agencies are currently dealing with a large fire at the Albert Basin Site. Please avoid the area as there is a large amount of toxic smoke in the air.
"Police have temporarily closed the greenway to both pedestrians and cyclists."
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