A large fire broke out in a 42-storey tower block in central Istanbul, Turkey, on Tuesday sending thick smoke billowing into the air.

Video on Turkish television showed debris falling from the upper floors of the building, which is made up of residential apartments and offices, as fire crews fought the blaze.

People wearing breathing masks were led out by fire crews. A nearby petrol station and other buildings were also evacuated.

"It is not clear yet why or from where the fire was started. We will see when the fire brigade's report is finished. The cause will be investigated," said Istanbul Mayor Kadir Topbas.

"We could have experienced a catastrophe as at least 1,500 people reside in the building," he said.

The tower block's owner, Adnan Polat, said everyone from the building had been rescued. There were no reports of any casualties.

"All of them left the building in a healthy condition. We also rescued a few pets. Our biggest reward is there was no loss of life. This building has an early warning system and this incident showed the importance of it to everyone," Polat said.

The flames appeared to spread from the base of the tower and raged up one side of the building, leaving it scorched black.