Winnipeg, MB – At 1:25 p.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) responded to reports of a fire in a vacant hotel in the 700 block of Main Street.
At the scene, firefighters saw heavy smoke coming from the building. Firefighters launched a defensive attack from outside the building, as it was unsafe to enter the building. Due to the scale of the incident, a second alarm was declared, dispatching more crews to the scene.
Neighbouring buildings were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. A Winnipeg Transit bus responded to the scene to provide temporary shelter for evacuated residents. The City of Winnipeg’s Emergency Social Services team responded to provide temporary support to evacuated residents. No injuries have been reported.
Firefighters are using aerial ladders to apply water to the fire. Throughout the response, WFPS crews also deployed a drone for situational awareness.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. The building is expected to be a total loss.
WFPS will remain on scene throughout the evening. Residents should avoid the area.
When Main Street re-opens to traffic, residents should use caution, as water used to fight the fire will freeze and 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.