The blast occurred at approximately 12:00 local time (09:00 GMT) in the Aliaga district, causing a fire and leaving several workers trapped beneath debris.

Emergency teams were dispatched to the facility as thick smoke rose above the industrial site. Ambulances transported injured workers to nearby hospitals while firefighters worked to contain the fire.

According to the Izmir Governor's Office, preliminary investigations suggest that an overhead crane became detached and fell into an electric arc furnace during the casting of molten steel.

The incident initially claimed three lives, with authorities reporting 14 injuries.

However, the death toll later increased to six after one injured worker died in hospital and rescue teams recovered two additional bodies from the rubble.

Thirteen people were reported injured, including two in critical condition.

Local authorities said rescue operations were continuing for eight people believed to be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.

Izmir Mayor Cemil Tugay said the full extent of the casualties would only be established after emergency workers completed clearing the debris.

Authorities have opened an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion.

Firefighters and rescue personnel remained at the site as efforts continued to locate the missing workers.