A large fire in the west end has covered the area in a thick blanket of smoke.

The fire broke out in a notorious rooming house on Balmoral Ave., across from the Balmoral Hotel.

Fire crews have been battling the fire, and the cold, since 2:30 a.m. and are expected to remain on the scene for the morning.

Winnipeg Police say the fire is likely is suspicious as the building was slated for demolition.

There were no occupants in the building.

Balmoral St. is closed between Cumberland and Notre Dame.

The two left-hand lanes of Notre Dame are blocked by fire crews at Harriet St.

Cumberland Ave. was closed at Spence St. but has since been reopened.