Southern Manatee Fire and Rescue reported a 5-alarm structure fire in Southern Manatee County around 12:30 p.m. Thursday.
READ ABOUT THE AFTERMATH | Fire crews monitor hot spots after massive 5-alarm fire in Bradenton
Crews responded to the 1400 block of 44th Avenue East in Bradenton.
44th Avenue East is currently closed from 9th St E to 15th St E.
**UPDATE TO STRUCTURE FIRE** 5 alarm fire. If you are in the area EVACUATE heavy smoke will cause respiratory issues 1200 44th Ave E
— ManateePublicSafety (@MCGPublicSafety) May 18, 2017
Flames and very heavy smoke could be seen coming from the warehouse as crews worked to extinguish the fire.
Calvin Perry works next to the tire yard. He said the flames spread quickly.
"Before the fire department got here the garage was fully engulfed, the flames reached the trees and then the flames reached the business next door," said Perry.
Manatee Public Safety is recommending people evacuate the area due to smoke. They also advise drivers to keep the roadways clear if you are in the area.
Manatee County Schools alerted parents of students who walk home from Samoset Elementary that they will need to be picked up at school, due to smoke in the area.
**STRUCTURE FIRE UPDATE 3** this is the affected area of the structure fire. If you are in this area evacuate pic.twitter.com/UAGCIv4A82
— ManateePublicSafety (@MCGPublicSafety) May 18, 2017
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