Massive Explosion in Manhattan, New York — The heart of New York City was rocked on Friday morning when a major explosion ignited a large fire in a midtown skyscraper, sending plumes of dense black smoke billowing high above Manhattan’s iconic skyline.
The incident unfolded at around 10:00 AM local time on August 15, near 305 East 95th Street, just a short distance from Central Park. Eyewitnesses described a loud blast followed by thick smoke rising from the affected building.
Emergency Response in Full Force
According to officials, nearly 100 New York City Fire Department (FDNY) firefighters and emergency crews rushed to the scene within minutes. Sirens echoed through the streets as first responders battled intense flames that continued to claw at the building’s upper levels.
FDNY confirmed the severity of the situation, stating on X (formerly Twitter):
“FDNY members are currently operating at a 3-alarm fire at 305 East 95th Street in Manhattan.”
Cause of the Explosion
Preliminary reports from ABC 7 indicate the fire was sparked by a gas leak in the building’s basement. Videos shared on social media show the fire erupting from the roof, with massive smoke clouds visible from multiple boroughs.
Crews have since brought the blaze under control, though the cause remains under investigation.
BREAKING ALERT 🚨
— Pesquisador ! (@ospensadorestt) November 14, 2024
MANHATTAN NY
NYC SKYLINE FILLED WITH BLACK SMOKE, HAS A FIRE RIPS THROUGH SKYSCRAPER ROOF‼️
A large fire has erupted from the roof of a midtown Manhattan skyscraper, filling the skies over New York City with thick smoke.
The blaze was spotted from the roof… pic.twitter.com/RU1ta2Q41Z
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents and bystanders shared dramatic footage online, showing streets blanketed in haze and the once-clear morning skyline turned into a scene of chaos.
One local resident posted:
“Something just exploded on E95th Street… Black smoke everywhere. Looks like it’s getting worse, but maybe it’s just the wind.”
Impact on the City
The incident caused temporary road closures in the area, with traffic diversions and delays reported on nearby avenues. Subway services in the vicinity also experienced brief disruptions as a precautionary measure.
While no fatalities have been reported at this time, officials have yet to release information on potential injuries or structural damage.
Ongoing Safety Measures
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area until further notice and to keep windows closed to limit exposure to the smoke. Gas line inspections are underway to prevent any secondary hazards.