Update: six fatalities as a result of the explosion in Plaka, Athens

The death toll from the powerful explosion that caused a two-storey building to collapse in central Athens rose to six on Saturday afternoon, after rescue crews recovered what are believed to be the final two bodies from the rubble.

The six people reported missing following the explosion were believed to include four American tourists who had rented a short-term apartment on the first floor of the building, as well as an elderly couple living on the second floor.

Around 30 firefighters, supported by six vehicles, including two specialist rescue vehicles, and three search-and-rescue dogs, took part in the operation. 

The explosion occurred at approximately 7:35 a.m. at 15 Lysikratous Street, shaking the Plaka area and causing structural damage to nearby buildings, which were evacuated as a precaution to ensure public safety and prevent any further collapses.

In all, authorities are investigating the cause of the blast, with a possible natural gas leak among the main scenarios being considered.