A fire broke out at Heritage’s Capitol Hill headquarters this afternoon as work was being done on the front facade of the building. Black smoke could be seen coming from one of the newly constructed columns shortly before 2 p.m.

The fire did not enter the building. However, there is some lingering smoke, water and drywall damage on certain floors. Fire officials quickly put out the blaze and employees were allowed to reenter the building around 3 p.m., although Heritage will be officially closed for the remainder of the day.

The news made the Drudge Report, prompting an outpouring of inquires about the fire.