A five-alarm fire tore through three homes in Bayonne Saturday, and officials say it was fueled by windy conditions.

The flames broke out on Andrew Street shortly before noon, starting in one home before spreading to two neighboring homes.

Two people were taken to the hospital as a precaution, according to officials.

 

Firefighters were able to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to a fourth house. They were working to put out hotspots, and firefighters expected to remain at the scene into the night due to flare-ups from the wind.

News 12 cameras were rolling as dozens of displaced residents were bused to Bayonne High School. The fire chief tells News 12 that at least 43 residents have been displaced and are in the care of emergency officials and the Red Cross.

A nearby fire hydrant was out of service due to the cold weather, News 12 is told.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.