Weather Data Source: New York City 30 days weather

Massive Fire Erupts in Manhattan Apartment Complex

Fire engulfing a Manhattan apartment building with smoke rising into the sky.

Manhattan, November 9, 2025

A significant fire broke out in a Manhattan apartment complex, causing extensive damage and prompting an emergency response from over 40 fire units. Residents were advised to keep their windows closed to avoid smoke inhalation, while the cause remains under investigation. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported among firefighters. This incident highlights the ongoing importance of fire safety protocols in urban settings.

Massive Fire Erupts in Manhattan Apartment Complex; Residents Urged to Close Doors and Windows

New York City, NY – A significant fire erupted in a Manhattan apartment complex on Saturday, November 8, 2025, prompting authorities to advise residents to close their doors and windows to prevent smoke inhalation. The fire, which began on the roof of a seven-story building, quickly escalated to a three-alarm blaze, drawing over 40 fire units and 170 personnel, including emergency medical services.

Fire Details

The fire broke out around 10 a.m. at 305 East 95th Street in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Firefighters arrived within minutes to find heavy flames spreading across the roof, reaching three penthouse units and the ceiling area below. Dramatic videos from the scene showed thick black smoke billowing from the rooftop and flames shooting into the sky. The fire was contained to the building where it originated, preventing it from spreading to adjacent structures. Three firefighters sustained minor injuries while responding to the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Public Advisory

Authorities advised residents in the area to keep their windows closed and avoid exposure to the smoke. The New York City Office of Emergency Management also warned of potential traffic disruptions due to the ongoing firefighting efforts. Nearby residents were urged to stay indoors and avoid the vicinity to ensure their safety.

Historical Context

Manhattan has experienced several significant fires in its history. Notably, the Great New York City Fire of 1845 destroyed 345 buildings in Lower Manhattan, resulting in 30 deaths. More recently, the 2022 Bronx apartment fire killed 17 people, including eight children, and injured 44 others. These incidents underscore the importance of fire safety measures and prompt emergency responses in urban settings.

Safety Measures

In light of the recent fire, residents are reminded to adhere to fire safety guidelines. The New York City Fire Department recommends staying calm during a fire, notifying the Fire Department immediately, and avoiding the use of elevators. If a fire occurs on a floor below your apartment, it presents a greater threat than a fire on a floor above. Residents should close all doors as they exit to confine the fire and never use the elevator. If caught in heavy smoke, get down on the floor and crawl, keeping your head low to avoid inhaling smoke. If unable to exit the building, call 911 and provide your address, floor, apartment number, and the number of people in your apartment. Seal the doors to your apartment with wet towels or sheets and seal air ducts or other openings where smoke may enter. Open windows a few inches at the top and bottom unless flames and smoke are coming from below. Do not break any windows. If conditions in the apartment appear life-threatening, open a window and wave a towel or sheet to attract the attention of firefighters. If smoke conditions worsen before help arrives, get down on the floor and take short breaths through your nose. If possible, retreat to a balcony or terrace away from the source of the smoke, heat, or fire. For more detailed safety information, refer to the NYC Apartment Building Emergency Guide.

Weather Conditions

On the day of the fire, New York City experienced partly cloudy conditions with a high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 47°F (8°C). The following day, Sunday, November 9, is expected to have periods of rain and drizzle beginning in the late morning, with a high of 63°F (17°C) and a low of 54°F (12°C). Residents should stay updated on weather conditions, as rain could impact firefighting efforts and visibility.

Conclusion

The recent fire in Manhattan serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and preparedness. Residents are urged to stay vigilant, adhere to safety guidelines, and remain informed through official channels to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What caused the fire in the Manhattan apartment complex?

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. As of now, no official statement has been released regarding the origin of the blaze.

Were there any injuries reported?

Yes, three firefighters sustained minor injuries while responding to the fire. No civilian injuries have been reported at this time.

What safety measures should residents take during a fire?

Residents should stay calm, notify the Fire Department immediately, avoid using elevators, close all doors as they exit to confine the fire, and never use the elevator. If caught in heavy smoke, get down on the floor and crawl, keeping your head low to avoid inhaling smoke. If unable to exit the building, call 911 and provide your address, floor, apartment number, and the number of people in your apartment. Seal the doors to your apartment with wet towels or sheets and seal air ducts or other openings where smoke may enter. Open windows a few inches at the top and bottom unless flames and smoke are coming from below. Do not break any windows. If conditions in the apartment appear life-threatening, open a window and wave a towel or sheet to attract the attention of firefighters. If smoke conditions worsen before help arrives, get down on the floor and take short breaths through your nose. If possible, retreat to a balcony or terrace away from the source of the smoke, heat, or fire. For more detailed safety information, refer to the NYC Apartment Building Emergency Guide.

How can residents stay informed about the fire’s progress?

Residents should monitor official communications from the New York City Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management for updates on the fire’s status and any necessary safety precautions.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Details
Location 305 East 95th Street, Upper East Side, Manhattan, NY
Time of Occurrence Saturday, November 8, 2025, around 10 a.m.
Fire Response Three-alarm fire with over 40 fire units and 170 personnel, including EMS
Injuries Three firefighters sustained minor injuries; no civilian injuries reported
Public Advisory Residents advised to keep windows closed and avoid exposure to smoke
Cause of Fire Under investigation; no official statement released yet
Historical Context Reminds of past significant fires in Manhattan, including the Great New York City Fire of 1845 and the 2022 Bronx apartment fire
Safety Measures Residents reminded to adhere to fire safety guidelines; refer to NYC Apartment Building Emergency Guide for detailed information
Weather Conditions Partly cloudy with a high of 66°F (19°C) and a low of 47°F (8°C) on the day of the fire; rain expected on Sunday, November 9

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