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A 144-year-old building in downtown Winnipeg is a total loss after a fire tore through it on Wednesday morning.
The fire broke out just before 4 a.m. in the vacant Manwin Hotel near the intersection of Logan Avenue and Main Street
Large plumes of smoke could be seen from as far away as the St. James area, and the smoke blew southeast, completely blanketing the St. Boniface area.
Several crews responded to battle the blaze.
As a result, Main Street has been closed between Higgins Avenue and Logan Avenue since the fire began. Logan Avenue is also closed between King Street and the Disraeli Freeway.
The building is situated directly next to the Main Street Project. A few transit buses are on location, sheltering people from neighbouring buildings.
The building has sustained significant fire and water damage and is expected to be a complete loss. Firefighters are expected to remain on scene throughout the morning rush.
Motorists are encouraged to avoid the area and find an alternative route.
More details to come.
