The Old Steine has been closed tonight as firefighters tackle a fifth-floor blaze at the Royal Albion Hotel where they rescued one person.
Eight fire engines and several ambulances are on the scene and the hotel has been evacuated.
A fire service statement says: “East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service are at the scene of a fire in Brighton.
“We were called at 7.12pm to reports of a fire on the fifth floor of a hotel on Old Steine.
“As of 7.40pm, eight fires engines have been sent to the incident.
“People are being asked to avoid the area while the fire is being dealt with.
“A further update will be posted around 9pm.”
Two fire engines were sent from Preston Circus, along with the aerial ladder platform. Crews were also sent from Hove, Roedean, Lewes and Barcombe along with various support units.
West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service sent two crews from Shoreham to assist.
The fire was contained and reported to be under control.