Two dead after ferocious house fire in Sydney

An elderly couple have died after a fierce fire consumed their Sydney home this morning.

The fire started in the two-storey Riverview home just after 6.30am.

At least six trucks were at the scene, with Hazmat also arriving.

A 75-year-old man and 70-year-old woman died in the blaze.

The home was completely destroyed and neighbouring homes had to be evacuated.

Neighbours tried to douse the fire but it flared up too quickly, forcing them back until firefighters arrived.

Investigations are continuing into the fire, with police to establish a crime scene when the house is deemed safe to enter.

The house is understood to have contained asbestos, which added extra complication to firefighters' efforts.