An explosion in Manhattan, New York City Saturday evening has left at least 29 people injured as of midnight.

During a press briefing late Saturday night, Bill De Blasio, Mayor of New York City, said there is "no evidence at this point of a terror connection" with the explosion in the city's Chelsea neighborhood, which occurred around 20:30.

None of the injured faces life threats.

Authorities said police are investigating the blast as a criminal act not immediately linked to any terror organization.

The incident occurred just three days before the opening of 71st Session of the UN General Assembly in the UN Headquarters. The host city of the world body is already on high alert to guarantee the security of visiting heads of state or government.

President Barack Obama has been briefed about the blast, reported White House.

Police issued a bulletin for motorists in the area to "expect extensive traffic delays and emergency personnel in the area of 23rd Street and 7th Avenue" and asked the public to avoid entering the area.