The Montreal fire department is advising people to avoid the intersection of Sherbrooke Street East near Durocher Avenue due to a major industrial building fire.

Firefighters issued a first alarm at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, and within 45 minutes, a fifth alarm was sounded.

SIM spokesperson Matthew Griffin said the fire appears to have stared in a pile of materials in a recycling centre in the building. The fire has since spread throughout the building and there is a partial collapse of the structure.

"For that reason, we're currently in defensive mode," said Griffith.

Around 150 firefighters are on the scene and there are no injuries to report.  

Montreal police (SPVM) are on the scene assisting and directing traffic. 

Sherbrooke Street is closed between Broadway Avenue and Joseph-Versailles Boulevard. Drivers are advised to go by Notre-Dame Street East to avoid getting stuck in the area.

Power has also been cut in the area while the operation is underway.

Police say firefighters are working to control the flames and that there is no danger of it spreading to nearby refineries.

Griffith said the fire is likely to burn into the evening.