Multiple feared dead as major fire engulfs apartment building in Belgium

A major fire at a residential apartment building in Belgium's Antwerp on Wednesday has left multiple people dead, while firefighters continue searching the building for possible survivors and victims.

The fire broke out at around 9:53 AM (local time) in the apartment complex, which houses nearly 200 residents. According to reports, the blaze is believed to have started on the eighth floor, although officials said the exact origin has not yet been confirmed.

Rescue teams remain inside the building as it is still unclear how many people may be trapped. Authorities have not yet released the exact number of fatalities or injuries.

Fire still not under control

As of around 12:00 PM, firefighters said the blaze had not been brought under control.

"The fire has not yet been extinguished and is not yet under control," fire department spokesperson Marie De Clercq told De telegraaf.

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The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Large-scale emergency response

Given the scale of the incident, emergency authorities activated the medical intervention plan to ensure hospitals are not overwhelmed by casualties.

Fire crews from several neighbouring regions, including Waasland, Kempen, Rand and Rivierenland, were deployed to assist local firefighters in containing the blaze and carrying out rescue operations.

Images from the scene showed thick black smoke billowing from the upper floors of the building, with emergency vehicles surrounding the area.

Authorities have advised residents living nearby to keep their windows and doors closed because of the heavy smoke and to avoid the area until emergency operations are completed.

"We ask local residents affected by the smoke to close windows and doors and, if necessary, switch off ventilation," police said.

The search for victims and the effort to bring the fire under control are still ongoing.