Thick, black smoke from west end brush fire seen across Edmonton – Edmonton [Video]

A fire in west Edmonton could be seen far and wide early Tuesday afternoon.

A plume of thick, black smoke was spotted across the city from the fire that appeared to be originating from an area near the west leg of Anthony Henday Drive, north of Stony Plain Road.

Edmonton Fire Rescue Services said it received reports of a brush/grass fire near 186 Street and 104 Avenue at 12:30 p.m. It quickly spread north towards 111 Avenue.

Fire crews arrived on scene at 12:35 p.m. and said as of 1:20 p.m., they remain hard at work to bring the fire under control.

Police said several businesses have been evacuated.

Edmonton fire said the flames later jumped 111 Avenue, fueled by high winds. Just before 3:30 p.m., police said 111 Avenue was closed from 184 Street to the Anthony Henday Drive, so those trying to access the freeway had to use other routes.

Anthony Henday Drive was shut …