Damage caused by a fire that ripped through a multi-unit townhouse complex in west Edmonton is estimated at $1.5 million.

The blaze broke out during the noon hour Wednesday at Surrey Gardens on 178 Street and 69 Avenue.

A dozen trucks responded to the two-alarm call.

"When we arrived, we had two units on the north side of this complex fully involved," said Operations Deputy Chief Barry Lamb of Edmonton Fire Rescue Services.

Dozens of firefighters worked to contain the blaze, and around 2:15 p.m. EFRS declared the fire "under control".

"Really aggressive attack, interior attack, and hard work by the crews," said Deputy Chief Lamb regarding the response.

There were no serious injuries reported however one cat was missing.

8 units suffered fire damage and approximately 72 units were evacuated.

Deputy Chief Lamb says displaced residents from 24 suites will not be able to return home overnight.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

With files from David Ewasuk