Gas Buildup Causes Havoc
A peaceful Friday morning along Manhattan’s Upper East Side was interrupted by a tremendous explosion that belched dark, heavy smoke into the city’s skyline. The explosion, which was reported shortly after 10 a.m. near East 95th Street and 2nd Avenue, was strong enough to shake surrounding buildings and initiate a raging fire that engulfed a seven-story apartment complex roof.
Police officials claim the third-alarm fire was sparked by a gas buildup in the basement of the building. The building superintendent was inside and received a minor injury. Three firefighters were injured as well during the fight against the fire, although all their injuries are described as non-life-threatening.
FDNY members are currently operating at a 3-alarm fire at 305 East 95th Street in Manhattan. pic.twitter.com/H05Ehdd7Ah
— FDNY (@FDNY) August 15, 2025
Firefighters Battle Intense Flames
Within minutes, more than 140 New York City Fire Department and EMS workers flooded the scene. On social media, videos capture crews pouring water onto the rooftop with strong streams as columns of smoke billowed above the residential neighborhood. Witnesses said they heard a massive bang, followed by a burst of heat and a smoky odor.
I heard a boom from my building just across from the fire, and peeked outside to see all the smoke in the skies,” said local resident Joann Sowma. Others over a number of blocks reported odors of smoke and ash blowing through the air.
City Urges Residents to Avoid Area
Kaz Daughtry, New York City Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, verified the response as massive, commending first responders for acting quickly. “This is an active incident avoid the area and follow official channels for updates,” he posted online.
Several surrounding streets were closed off as firefighters toiled to make sure the fire didn’t spread and cause more harm. Residents in the damaged building and adjacent apartments were safely evacuated as a precaution.
Until the scene is under investigation, fire officials say they believe that the buildup of gas was the only cause of the explosion. The accident is a strong reminder of the risk of gas leaks in older structures, much of which still use out-of-date infrastructure.
By late afternoon, the blaze had been contained, but firefighters were expected to stay on the scene to watch for hotspots. The FDNY has made no announcement as yet about when displaced residents will be allowed to return home.
For the time being, the Upper East Side is left with the burnt remains of a one-time-thriving apartment building a visual reminder of a morning when everyday city life became a struggle for survival.
