Fire sweeps through boats anchored in Hong Kong

A fire has swept through several boats anchored in Hong Kong.

Five people reportedly sustained injuries when the fire broke out at the Shau Kei Wan typhoon shelter, sending thick black smoke billowing into the air, reports the South China Morning Post.

The blaze and smoke could reportedly be seen from Quarry Bay, two kilometres away.

It is unclear at this stage what caused the inferno.