NYC Explosion: Major Upper East Side Fire Mobilizes 170 Firefighters, Causes Traffic Delays

A significant fire incident took place on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, where a large blaze erupted on the roof of a seven-story apartment building located at 305 East 95th Street, between Second and First Avenues. The event unfolded on Friday morning and quickly escalated to a three-alarm fire, as reported by the New York City Fire Department (FDNY). The fire was first reported just after 10 a.m., sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky, visible for blocks.

More than 170 firefighters and emergency medical services personnel were mobilized to tackle the fire. Initial reports indicated that the fire began on the roof of the building, with flames spreading to the cockloft and three penthouses situated on the top floor. Despite the scale of the incident, no adjacent buildings were affected, and the blaze was contained before it could cause further damage.

During their response, three firefighters sustained minor injuries. Additionally, the building's superintendent, who was in the basement at the time of the incident, also suffered a minor injury. Deputy Assistant Chief James Canty stated that the origin of the fire was on the roof level, and the exact cause remains under investigation.

Residents in the area reported a loud explosion associated with the onset of the fire. One eyewitness described the intense moment, noting that the sound and subsequent shaking led them to believe that an external force, such as a vehicle collision or even an earthquake, had occurred.

The city's Office of Emergency Management issued advisories to the local population, recommending that residents in the vicinity avoid breathing smoke by keeping their windows closed. Traffic delays were anticipated in the area due to ongoing emergency operations.

Several videos shared on social media platforms depicted the intensity of the situation, capturing scenes of firefighters diligently working atop the building amid the bright orange flames and dense smoke. The FDNY remains on the scene as the investigation continues to uncover the cause of the fire.

The New York City Department of Buildings noted that there was a partial stop-work order at the location. Details concerning this order are still being gathered.

As the day's events unfolded, it became clear that the fast response and coordination between the various emergency teams helped prevent a more severe outcome. Updates will follow as more information becomes available from the investigation.