New York: A major fire broke out in a Midtown Manhattan skyscraper Tuesday morning, just hours before New York City’s annual St Patrick’s Day Parade, authorities reported.

The blaze erupted in a high-rise near East 43rd Street and Madison Avenue shortly before 10 am, prompting an immediate response from FDNY firefighters and emergency services.

Fire sends plumes of smoke across Midtown

Footage from the New York Fire Department (FDNY) showed thick black smoke billowing from the building’s rooftop, while sirens blared as first responders rushed to the scene.

Additional clips shared on social media captured visible flames spouting from the top of the skyscraper, drawing attention from onlookers and causing widespread concern across the area.

City issues emergency warnings

New York City’s official emergency notification system warned residents and commuters of traffic delays, road closures, and mass transit disruptions due to the fire.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation, and the FDNY is working to contain the blaze and ensure public safety in the heavily populated Midtown area.

The incident has raised concerns for St Patrick’s Day celebrations, as emergency services manage both the fire and parade logistics in one of the busiest districts of Manhattan.