A fire that broke out at two adjacent apartment complexes in Thorncliffe Park remains ablaze, leaving displaced residents uncertain about when they can go back home.
The blaze, classified as a five-alarm fire, ignited on Nov. 27 at 11 Thorncliffe Park before spreading to the neighboring structure at 21 Overlea Blvd. Due to elevated carbon monoxide levels, both buildings were swiftly evacuated.
Describing the situation as intricate, a City of Toronto representative stated that the fire is still smouldering, emphasizing the challenges faced in extinguishing it completely.
Toronto Fire Chief Jim Jessop characterized the fire as unprecedented and difficult to tackle due to its location between the two buildings, where access is severely restricted. Despite ongoing efforts, the fire persists in a narrow gap filled with combustible material, hindering progress.
According to the latest update, there is no definitive timeline for residents to return to their units as firefighting operations are ongoing, with officials prioritizing a safe return for residents.
Since the evacuation, nearly 400 residents have been accommodated in hotels, awaiting the green light to return home.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, with Chief Jessop acknowledging that the investigation might extend over several months.