A fire broke out in Hanoi's Nhat Tan Market and, fanned by strong winds, spread quickly, sending traders and shoppers fleeing and engulfing the market in thick smoke.

Traders said the fire appeared to have started in the plastic equipment and paper votive section, spreading to adjacent cloth shops. Loud bangs were heard prior to the fire, which was detected at 12:40pm, they said.

Hundreds of fire fighters and local security and military forces in Tay Ho District were mobilised to fight the blaze. Fire trucks approached the site from all directions, with traffic police coordinating traffic flow to allow quick access to the market for emergency vehicles.

The fire was brought under control within about an hour, but a thick pall of black smoke hung over the market. Fire officials have sealed the market and evacuated all traders and shoppers until they can be sure there is no risk of the fire reigniting. An investigation has begun.

Black smoke covers Nhat Tan Market early this afternoon.

Fire spread to other shops

Firetrucks approach the site

Traders in shock after losing commodities

Many stalls were destroyed after the fire.