Bronx apartment building fire sparked by exploding lithium battery triggers 3-alarm response

BRONX, N.Y. — A lithium battery explosion sparked a three-alarm fire at a five-story apartment building in the Bronx on Wednesday, prompting a major emergency response.

The fire broke out on the third floor of the building at 374 East 209th Street, according to emergency officials. Firefighters launched searches for people who may have still been inside as crews battled the blaze.

The FDNY upgraded the incident to a third alarm, bringing additional firefighters and emergency personnel to the scene. Residents can expect heavy emergency activity, traffic disruptions, and smoke in the area.

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene advised residents to avoid smoke exposure by staying indoors with windows closed and limiting outdoor activity where smoke is present. People with heart or lung conditions, including asthma, are urged to seek immediate medical attention if they experience shortness of breath or chest pain.

The extent of injuries and the cause of the lithium battery explosion remain under investigation.