Violence has erupted between Muslims and Buddhists in central Burma's Meiktila town, leaving several dead, scores displaced and houses torched.
Angry mobs clashed after what reports say was an argument that began at a gold shop between its Muslim owner and Buddhist customers. Mosques were among buildings set alight in subsequent riots.
Firefighters have been working to extinguish the flames, but some reports say angry mobs have been blocking their efforts to do so in some places.
Security forces have been sent to the area to contain the violence, which began two days ago. But some local residents have complained that there are not enough police to help stem the unrest.
Scores of Muslims have left their houses to shelter in temporary relief camps, local officials say.
The UN said community and religious leaders had to "publicly call on their followers to adjure violence, respect the law and promote peace". Correspondents say this is the most serious sectarian clash since unrest in Rakhine last year.
