The New York Fire department is currently at the scene in a bid to quell the towering furnace.
So far no injuries have currently been reported, and it is unclear how many people were inside when the blaze began.
It has been identified as a four-alarm fire in a rating system that only extends up to five.
The fire began at approximately 3pm inside the building located at 565 W. 144th Street and Broadway.
The billowing smoke could be seen rising far above the city from as far away as Central Park.
Others observed they could see the fire 80 blocks away.
More to follow..