A five-alarm fire that ripped through two buildings in Union City Thursday has left at least 40 people homeless.

Fire officials say the flames started in the rear of a bodega located on the ground floor and quickly spread between 542 and 540 29th Street. Despite efforts by firefighters, the flames spread to the second and third floors and eventually into the cockloft.

All of the residents and business workers were able to get out safely. Ten firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation, heat exhaustion and minor injuries.

Officials say both buildings are not unstable. Demolition crews are slated to knock down what is left of them.