A Queens fire tore through multiple homes on 147th Street in New York on Thursday after flames spread rapidly from one house to neighboring buildings, prompting a three-alarm response, officials said.
The fire broke out at 21-07 147th Street, where crews from the Fire Department of New York responded to reports of a working house fire that quickly escalated.
Three Homes Involved in Three-Alarm Fire
FDNY confirmed the escalation in a post on X, stating that crews were “operating at a 3-alarm fire at 21-07 147th Street in Queens.”
Emergency alert reports said the blaze extended to two additional homes, with three houses involved at the height of the fire. Thick smoke blanketed the neighborhood as firefighters worked to contain the spread.
HAPPENING NOW: CFPA Social Media Director Julian Tague @857FirePhotos is on scene of a 2nd Alarm in East Elmhurst, Queens. pic.twitter.com/J0LBgU6o05
— CT Fire Photo (@ctfirephoto) December 25, 2025
Firefighters Deploy Ground and Ladder Crews
FDNY rushed additional crews and equipment to the scene. Firefighters attacked the flames from the ground and from ladder trucks, focusing on stopping the fire from jumping to more structures.
Officials said the fast-moving blaze required aggressive tactics to protect surrounding homes and prevent further damage.
Residents Urged to Avoid Area
Authorities warned residents in the area to expect traffic delays and to avoid smoke exposure. Nearby residents were advised to keep windows closed and stay clear of the active fire scene while crews continued operations.
As of the latest update, officials had not reported any injuries related to the fire. The cause of the blaze has not yet been released.
