A neighbourhood in St. Catharines, Ont. is being evacuated as emergency crews struggle to contain smoke from a fire that began early Sunday morning.

Police are advising elderly citizens, children and anyone with breathing difficulties to leave the area surrounding an abandoned foundry on Yale Crescent.

The fire, which started around 3 a.m., has been stopped but officials are concerned that strong winds will carry large amounts of heavy smoke through residential areas on Berryman Avenue and Vine Street South, between Queenston Street and Welland Avenue.

Evacuees are invited to Haig Bowl Arena where Red Cross officials will be available for assistance.

Anyone who remains in their home is advised to close all windows and doors, police said.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. Anyone with information is asked to contact Niagara Regional Police Service at (905) 688-4111 ext. 4272 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.