RESIDENTS at a Southampton flat block have been evacuated as firefighters tackle a blaze.

Emergency services rushed to Warburton Road, Thornhill, just after 12pm today to reports of a flat fire.

Daily Echo:

Plumes of thick smoke were seen across the area coming from a flat on the first floor.

Residents were evacuated and it is understood that everyone was able to flee the building.

The road reopened today at around 2.45pm.

A spokesperson from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Servicesaid: "Firefighters from St Mary’s, Hightown and Cosham are in attendance at a property in Warburton Road, Southampton.

"We were called at midday and are using breathing apparatus and water jets to tackle a fire in a first floor flat.

"The incident is ongoing and we advise people to avoid the area to allow emergency crews access."