Fire in Kingston centre causes traffic diversions
London Fire Brigade (LFB) said the blaze at the building in Richmond Road was first reported to them at 14:30 GMT.
People are being urged to avoid the area as road closures, including for the one-way system, are in place.
Station Commander Will Thompson, who is at the scene, said: "The fire is producing smoke, so we advise local residents to keep their windows and doors closed."
There are no reports of injuries.
Two of the Brigade's 32-metre (105ft) turntable ladders are being used as observation towers, providing incident commanders with an aerial view to improve situational awareness and inform tactical decisions.
London Ambulance Service said it had sent an incident response officer and also asked the public to avoid the area.
People who live near to the incident should stay indoors and keep windows closed, the service added.
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