Nearly three weeks since its inception, the most intricate fire in Toronto’s history has been extinguished, yet residents of two buildings in Thorncliffe Park face uncertainty about returning home in time for the holidays. Firefighters had been combating the blaze at 11 Thorncliffe Park Dr. and 21 Overlea Blvd. since November 27. Although officials declared the fire extinguished on Monday, an update on Tuesday revealed that the connected buildings and the 408 evacuated units will need assessment for damages before residents can reoccupy, with the timeline remaining uncertain.
Kamal Gogna, the City of Toronto’s interim chief building official, emphasized the significant amount of work required to ensure the buildings’ safety for reoccupation. Toronto Fire is transferring responsibility for the buildings to the property’s management company, which will engage third-party engineers to evaluate damage and air quality. Following this assessment, the city will review the report for approval, enabling residents to return in stages based on necessary repairs.
Despite efforts to expedite the process upon receiving engineering reports, the exact duration remains unknown. Fire Chief Jim Jessop described the fire as the most complex the city has faced, requiring innovative methods to combat the hidden blaze within the buildings’ walls. Firefighters utilized diverse techniques, including cutting into walls, applying water and foam, and using gases to displace oxygen.
Mayor Olivia Chow assured a prompt response based on engineering reports to facilitate residents’ return. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Toronto Fire and police. The city reported that displaced residents have been accommodated in hotels, with support from the Canadian Red Cross. While the situation has been challenging for residents, community support and emergency response measures have provided solace during this unprecedented period of anxiety.
Coun. Rachel Chernos Lin recognized the resilience and support demonstrated by residents and various organizations throughout the emergency response, including the city’s fire service, Toronto Emergency Management, the Canadian Red Cross, and The Neighbourhood Organization.