A three-alarm fire near West 22nd Street and Seventh Avenue sent heavy smoke rolling over Chelsea and into the Flatiron area this morning, clogging streets and slowing traffic as firefighters swarmed the block. Dozens of FDNY units crowded the intersection while crews stretched hoses, climbed ladders, and tried to knock back the flames. Neighbors reported thick smoke drifting toward surrounding buildings as emergency workers pushed onlookers behind barricades and set up gear.
According to FDNY, the incident was classified as a three-alarm fire at “22nd Street & 7th Avenue,” with officials warning people in the area to expect smoke and traffic delays. Notify NYC put out an alert urging nearby residents to avoid breathing the smoke and to keep windows shut while the response continues. City officials have not yet released any information on what sparked the blaze.
What officials are telling neighbors
For anyone watching the smoke from a nearby window, city guidance is clear: stay inside if you can. Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed and to limit time outdoors near the scene, especially for people with heart or lung conditions. NYC Emergency Management notes that anyone who starts to feel short of breath, dizzy, or develops chest pain should seek medical help right away. Officials emphasize that emergencies should be reported to 911, while 311 and the Notify NYC portal are available for non-urgent questions, tips, or translation assistance.
Traffic and transit impacts
Streets around West 22nd Street and Seventh Avenue were temporarily shut down as fire trucks, ambulances, and support vehicles fanned out around the block, leading to backups for drivers and delays for some transit riders. Notify NYC warned of road closures and a heavy emergency vehicle presence in the immediate area. Commuters cutting through Chelsea and the Flatiron district should expect lingering delays even after the main fire activity winds down…