05 Dec 2020 | 11:18 AM UTC
US: Structure fire causing disruptions in New York City's East Village early Dec. 5
Authorities responding to structure fire in New York City, N.Y., US, as of the morning of Dec. 5. Avoid the area.
Event
Firefighters are responding to a 4-alarm structure fire in New York City's East Village early Dec. 5. The blaze is occurring at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and East 7th Street, and began at approximately 0500. Reports indicate that the affected structure is a church and another adjacent building. Authorities have closed roads in the area to facilitate emergency operations, and advised residents to close windows and remain indoors. Police have evacuated several nearby buildings. There have been no reports of injuries.
Heightened security, as well as localized business and transport disruptions, are likely to continue in the coming hours.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Allow additional time to reach destinations in New York City's East Village through at least the remainder of Dec. 5; seek alternative routes to circumvent the incident site. Consider remaining indoors if smoke is heavy, especially if you suffer from a respiratory illness such as asthma, or conditions that lead to increased risk from smoke exposure. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.
