Imagine the serene skyline of Manhattan suddenly engulfed in thick, black smoke—an image that’s both chilling and surreal. Just this morning, a major explosion rattled the heart of New York City, sending shockwaves through the bustling streets as residents and onlookers scrambled to comprehend the chaos unfolding before their eyes.

Videos flooding social media show a terrifying scene where an explosion erupted near 305 East 95th Street, close to the iconic Central Park, at around 10 AM local time. The massive blast has already drawn around 100 firefighters and first responders who are currently battling the flames.

Reports indicate that the fire originated from a gas leak in the building's basement, a situation that can turn deadly in moments. As firefighters work tirelessly to bring the blaze under control, the New York City Fire Department confirmed their presence at the scene, classifying this incident as a 3-alarm fire. Their official account on X stated, “FDNY members are currently operating at a 3-alarm fire at 305 East 95th Street in Manhattan.”

Witnesses have shared their unsettling experiences online, with one user capturing the moment of the explosion and expressing their disbelief: “Something just exploded on e95th street and then this black smoke. Looks like it’s getting worse but might be the wind.” This comment highlights not just the immediacy of the danger but also the eerie calm that precedes such devastating events.

Another witness, identified as Jimmy, described hearing a loud boom just prior to the eruption of flames and smoke. The sheer power of the explosion left many in shock, and the aftermath has left a lasting impression on those who experienced it firsthand. “My Dry Cleaners is between those buildings (Tender Care). I guess I won’t be picking up any suits today,” humorously lamented another social media user, highlighting the disruption this disaster has caused to everyday life.

As firefighters continue to battle the blaze, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this shocking event. It serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change—one moment, you're enjoying a typical day in the city, and the next, you're witnessing a terrifying explosion.

This is a breaking news story, and as we gather more information, one can only hope for the safety of everyone involved. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.