Arson strike force investigating blaze near Portage and Albany

A fire in west Winnipeg sent massive clouds of smoke over the city Tuesday afternoon. The arson strike force has launched an investigation into the cause of the fire.

Heavy smoke billowed from one side of the Truro Creek culvert near Portage Avenue and Albany Street around 1:30 p.m. while crews battled the fire on the other side.

Nearby homes and businesses were evacuated as a precaution and traffic re-routed.

No injuries were reported.

Fire officials aren't sure what originally caught fire, but said it spread to a plastic liner in the culvert.

Five hours later at 7:30 p.m., police re-opened two lanes of Portage Avenue in each direction, but warned drivers to allow for extra time in the area.

Anyone with information on the blaze or suspects is asked to contact investigators at [phone] or Crime Stoppers at [phone].

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  Smoke from the fire near Portage and Albany could be seen from the CTV Live Eye camera in downtown Winnipeg.