Several explosions are said to have been heard at the scene. It is still unclear what exactly caught fire inside the warehouse, or why the fire started.
According to information given to the radio and television channel NDR, hydrogen sulfide is leaking from the scene of the fire. Residents are asked to keep windows and doors closed.
The entire center of Hamburg is reported to be blacked out due to the smoke from the fire. Train traffic is affected, the operator Deutsche Bahn announces.
There are no reports of any injuries.