Photo by MATT KAMINSKY Freelance photographer Matt Kaminsky captured heavy flames coming from the roof of one of the houses involved in today's multiple alarm blaze in Lowell. A firefighter working from a platform ladder truck at left is obscured by the heavy smoke. (Photo by MATT KAMINSKY)

LOWELL — Nashua’s Special Hazards vehicle and a ladder truck from Hudson were among the dozens of apparatus called to the Acre section of Lowell today to help battle a massive blaze that consumed at least two houses.

According to various news reports, the fire was discovered around 9 this morning by a rescue crew that happened to be on its way to another, unrelated call.

Flames soon engulfed one building and was spreading to another just feet away by the time additional help arrived.

The address is listed as 45-49 Clare St., which is near School and Broadway streets and just across the Pawtucket Canal from the UMass Lowell south campus.

At least two dozen people were driven from the homes, and four firefighters were treated for apparently minor injuries, according to reports.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.