Oslo - House fires claimed ten lives across Norway this weekend, according to authorities.

Four bodies of people aged between 17 and 22 were found in the remains of a burned-out single-family home on the island of Hery on Sunday. The deceased had been attending a party in the house. Authorities said there might be further bodies, since 20 people had attended the party. No cause for the blaze had been established.

Early Saturday, six people died in the Norwegian capital Oslo when a fire broke out in an apartment building during the night. Residents who fled to the roof or waited at their windows were rescued. However, the six deceased were trapped when they could not escape due to a blocked emergency exit. Police are also investigating whether a fire alarm was switched off.

Twelve of the surviving residents were taken to the hospital, one in critical condition.

Authorities refused to speculate about possible arson. (dpa)