Firefighters are battling a blaze at a shopping precinct in Melbourne’s north where residents have been warned about plumes of smoke in the area.
A fire broke out at the homemaker centre on High Street in Epping and ripped through a Supercheap Auto store and a Cash Converters outlet about 5am on Wednesday.
Firefighters battle a blaze at Supercheap Auto at Epping.Credit:Jason South
More than 80 firefighters were called to the scene to tackle the fire on 25 trucks and appliances, according to Fire Rescue Victoria, and when a building collapsed aerial appliances were put to use.
They were able to bring the inferno under control about 7.45am, but are expected to remain at the scene for most of the day. High Street and Cooper Street are closed in both directions.
A warning has been issued because of smoke in the area, but there is currently no risk to the community.
Aerial shots of Epping fire at a homemaker centre. Credit:Nine News
“If you are sensitive to smoke, or you live with someone who is sensitive to smoke, you should close windows and doors. Turn off heating and cooling systems,” the alert on the Vic Emergency website advised.
CFA is supporting FRV to fight the fire.
It is not yet clear what caused the blaze.
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