UPDATED

Winnipeg firefighters were called to Sutherland Avenue minutes after 5:00 am on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, for the report of a fire in an industrial building.

When crews arrived smoke and flames were seen billowing out of the building. A third alarm was called due to the size of the fire which increased the number of firefighters and equipment on scene.

Since the fire began it has spread to an adjoining building. Officials say that behind the building there is a pile of used tires that have also ignited. A firefighter told News4 that the smoke is “very nasty and full of really bad chemicals.”

Officials from the province are on site monitoring air quality. Residents in the area were told to close their windows to protect the air quality inside their homes. Police went door to door in the immediate area around the fire advising people to shelter in place inside their homes and to keep windows closed.

During the blaze expolsions could be heard inside the building. Fire officials said that they were likely cause by propane tanks. Early in the fire a section of wall collapsed.

All of the roads in the area have been closed by police and all access south of Euclid Avenue between Argyle Street North and Maple Street has been restricted. Officials are asking everyone to avoid the area and find alternate routes.

The fire is expected to most of the day to bring under control and extinguish.

More information as it becomes Available.