Yesterday, Thompson Fire and EMS responded to a fire at Westwood School around 3:30 a.m.

Thompson firefighters along with Vale Manitoba Operations Mine Rescue Firefighters worked to douse the flames and heavy equipment was used in the effort to sever the two main parts of the building - the classroom area and the gym.

According to a city spokesperson, it was reported that the classrooms are a complete loss.

Firefighters remained on scene throughout the day.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A post on the School District of Mystery Lake’s facebook page said quote - “as a result of the fire September start up will be affected.  SDML requires time to plan and details will be released at a later date.”

Due to the heavy smoke, the City of Thompson issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents of on a number of streets surrounding the scene.

RCMP went door-to-door to inform residents of the mandatory evacuation order, advising them to relocate to the TRCC.