The Sutherland Hotel in downtown Winnipeg is considered a complete loss following a fire early Wednesday afternoon.
At approximately 1:25 p.m. the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a vacant hotel in the 700 block of Main Street.
Fire crews launched a defensive attack from the outside as it was unsafe to enter the building. The blaze was so large that a second alarm sounded and more crews came to help battle it.
As a precaution, neighbouring buildings were evacuated. A Winnipeg Transit bus responded to the scene to provide temporary shelter for evacuated residents.
No injuries were reported.
Firefighters are using aerial ladders to apply water and have also deployed a drone for situational awareness.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Fire crews will remain on the scene throughout the evening and encourage residents to avoid the area.
The 700 block of Main Street was closed between Higgins and Jarvis all afternoon. When it opens, residents should use caution as the water that was used to fight the fire could create slippery conditions. City of Winnipeg crews will be monitoring conditions and applying sand and de-icing agents to roadways and sidewalks as required to improve traction.