JINAN - A mountain fire broke out in East China's Shandong province Monday morning, spreading toward Mount Tai, according to a report from local authorities.

Fire and smoke engulf part of a mountain near Shandong's capital city of Jinan, spreading toward Mount Tai, April 18, 2011. [Photo/Xinhua]

Fires broke out in several locations in the mountainous area near Shandong's capital city of Jinan around 9 am Monday. Strong winds are directing the fire toward Mount Tai, said Zhao Dekui, a representative from the provincial forestry department.

More than 200 firefighters were sent to build a "buffer zone" in the city of Tai'an, where Mount Tai is located, said Zhao.

Mount Tai, one of China's "Five Sacred Mountains", carries great historical and cultural significance. Its peak, referred to as the "Jade Emperor Peak", is approximately 1,500 meters above sea level.