SINGAPORE - Sounds of explosions pierced the air and plumes of black smoke hit residents staying at Block 2 of Everton Park on Thursday evening after a fire broke out on the 12th floor.

Operations manager Kelvin Yeo, who lives on the floor, was doing household chores when he saw smoke coming in to his kitchen window.

"The explosion sounded like firecrackers," said the 53-year-old. "The police told some of our neighbors not to come back until 8.30pm."

The SCDF said they had received a call at 5.52pm and dispatched two fire engines, one red rhino, two support vehicles and one ambulance to the scene. The fire was brought under control within half an hour using two water jets and there were no reported injuries.

Investigations are ongoing.