A powerful gas explosion tore through a six-story apartment building in Astoria early Tuesday morning, injuring at least three people and forcing the evacuation of approximately 200 residents just two days before Christmas.

The blast occurred around 4:15 a.m. at 31-47 23rd Street, a 72-unit building between 31st and 32nd Avenues. Firefighters responding to the scene found heavy damage to a second-floor apartment and structural concerns that prompted officials to evacuate the entire building.

“There was a huge boom, and the whole building shook,” said Maria Konstantinos, 67, who lives on the fourth floor. “I thought a plane had crashed. The walls cracked, ceiling tiles fell. I grabbed my cat and ran.”

Three residents were transported to Elmhurst Hospital Center with injuries including cuts, bruises, and smoke inhalation. All three were in stable condition as of late Tuesday morning. FDNY officials said the relatively low casualty count reflected the early morning timing, when most residents were asleep in bedrooms rather than in common areas.

Fire Department investigators and officials from National Grid, the utility company, were on scene throughout the day examining the cause of the explosion. Preliminary findings point to a natural gas leak, though the source and circumstances remain under investigation.

“We are working closely with fire investigators to determine exactly what happened,” said a National Grid spokesperson. “Our technicians are checking all gas infrastructure in and around the building.”

The explosion blew out windows on multiple floors and caused visible damage to the building’s facade. Debris scattered across 23rd Street, which remained closed to traffic throughout the day. Neighboring buildings were inspected and cleared for occupancy, though several residents reported cracked windows and fallen items.

For the displaced residents, the timing compounded an already traumatic experience. Many fled their apartments with only the clothes they were wearing, leaving gifts, decorations, and holiday preparations behind.

“My kids’ Christmas presents are up there,” said Roberto Mendez, 38, whose family of four lived on the third floor. “I do not even know if I can go back in to get them. My daughter keeps asking about Santa. What am I supposed to tell her?”

The Red Cross established a temporary shelter at the nearby Astoria Recreation Center, providing food, cots, and basic supplies for displaced residents. City officials said emergency housing assistance would be available for those who need it, though many families were making arrangements to stay with relatives.

Council Member Julie Won, whose district includes the affected area, visited the scene Tuesday afternoon and pledged support for affected families.

“No one should have to deal with this, especially right before the holidays,” Won said. “My office is working with city agencies to ensure these families have everything they need.”

Building records show the property, constructed in 1962, has had no recent violations related to gas systems. However, some residents said they had smelled gas intermittently in recent months.

“I called the super about it maybe three weeks ago,” said Konstantinos. “He said he would check it out. I do not know if he ever did.”

The building’s owner could not be immediately reached for comment. Property records list the owner as 23rd Street Realty LLC, with a mailing address in Manhattan.

FDNY Chief of Department John Hodgens said the investigation would take several days to complete. He urged residents of older buildings to report any gas odors immediately.

“Natural gas leaks can be extremely dangerous,” Hodgens said. “If you smell gas, leave the area and call 911. Do not use light switches, matches, or anything that could create a spark.”

The building will remain evacuated until structural engineers can assess damage and certify the property safe for occupancy. Officials could not estimate when residents might be allowed to return, though some suggested it could take weeks.

For those seeking to help, the Red Cross is accepting donations through its website. Local community organizations, including the Central Astoria Local Development Coalition, are coordinating collection drives for clothing, toiletries, and other necessities.

As night fell Tuesday, a few residents gathered across the street from their building, watching firefighters complete their work. Some held pets retrieved by emergency workers. Others simply stared at the windows of apartments they could not enter.

“Twenty-three years I lived there,” said Constantine Papadopoulos, 71. “I raised my children in that apartment. Now I do not know if I will ever go back.”