Two people were killed and 11 others injured, some critically, following an explosion at a port in northern Myanmar, local media reported Tuesday, citing authorities.

The blaze erupted late Monday at the port of Homalin in the north-western Sagaing Region when an oil tanker caught fire during a fuel transfer operation, according to the fire service.

Flames spread rapidly to nearby vessels, boats and vehicles in the harbour.

Videos circulating online showed that thick black smoke was rising into the sky as the fire continued to burn into Tuesday morning.

Several of the injured were reported to be in critical condition.

An eyewitness said thousands of barrels of fuel were stored on vessels at the port, with some boats attempting to flee while already engulfed in flames.

Residents told dpa the fire intensified quickly, driven by extreme heat in the region.

The port is primarily used for local trade in goods and fuel.

Authorities noted that a similar incident occurred in March, when two tanker boats caught fire at the same location, killing at least six people.

(dpa/NAN)