Loud explosion rocks New York City's Chelsea neighbourhood

A loud explosion has been heard in the neighbourhood of Chelsea in Manhattan, NYC, according to Reuters witness and social media.

A loud explosion rocks Chelsea. Source: Twitter

A loud explosion has rocked the area at West 23rd and 6th Ave Manhattan's neighbourhood of Chelsea, according to eyewitnesses and a Reuters reporter.

Emergency crews have arrived at the scene.

Just kicked out of the diner due to explosion next door #Chelsea#23rdstreet#nycpic.twitter.com/PtnfCT0YJD

At least three people were seen being taken away from the apparent scene of the blast in ambulances, but the severity of their injuries was not immediately clear. Police and fire representatives said they were investigating reports of an explosion.

I have not idea of what just happened . A huge explosion next to my building in #Chelsea #nyc #manhattan #explosion pic.twitter.com/p71SJDR10Q — Danilo Gabrielli (@DaniloGabrielli) September 18, 2016