A fire at an elementary school in the northern Manitoba city of Thompson on Wednesday morning sent thick, black smoke into the air, prompting the city to warn residents in the area to take precautions.
The fire at Westwood Elementary School is believed to have started in an electrical panel, according to the city.
In a statement on its website, the city said people living near the school, on Mallard Crescent — particularly those with respiratory issues — should remain inside with windows closed to reduce exposure to the smoke, and also recommended keeping pets inside to avoid exposure to the smoke.
The city also said Westwood-area residents may experience low or no water pressure on Wednesday due to the firefighting efforts.
In a social media post, the Mystery Lake School Division said the fire at the kindergarten to Grade 8 school will have an impact on the September startup of classes. The division said more details will be released at a later time.