At least six people were killed and several others injured after a large fire broke out Wednesday morning in a 10-storey apartment building in the Belgian port city of Antwerp, authorities said.

The fire started shortly before 10 a.m. on the eighth floor of the residential tower in the Linkeroever neighborhood, sending thick plumes of smoke billowing from the upper levels. The building is home to more than 200 residents.

Emergency services, including multiple fire brigades, ambulances, and police, rushed to the scene. Dramatic rescues took place as firefighters used ladders to lower residents from terraces and balconies. Some survivors described being trapped by rapidly spreading smoke and waiting for help inside their apartments.

Local media reported that rescuers used ropes and aerial ladders to lower trapped residents from upper floors as smoke engulfed parts of the building.

Police said at least six deaths have been confirmed, though officials warned that the number of injured and potential additional casualties remains unclear as search operations continue.

Emergency services urged residents in surrounding areas to keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke in the vicinity of the building.

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever expressed condolences, saying on social media that his thoughts were with the victims and their families.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire. Early reports suggest the blaze began in the morning hours, but officials have not yet confirmed its origin.

Rescue operations were ongoing into the afternoon, with firefighters continuing to search the building for possible survivors and assess structural safety conditions.

Updated figures on casualties are expected as emergency teams complete their operations. (ILKHA)