It happened at a building at 86-10 151 Avenue between 85th and 88th streets just before 11:30 a.m.
Several firefighters could be seen on the roof as smoke billowed from the top of the building.
It appeared flames were impacting at least three floors of the building.
While the FDNY is still assessing the total damage, tenants throughout 10 apartments have been evacuated.
American Red Cross says they have registered 11 households and 25 people, including three children and six older adults, for assistance and temporary housing.
They say other impacted residents self-relocated with friends or family.
The fire started in the wall of a 5th floor apartment and worked its way up. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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