Several people are reported missing off the coast of Hong Kong after an industrial support vessel split in two and sank during a fierce tropical storm.

Authorities sent planes and helicopters to help with the rescue on Saturday, until at least three people from the 30-person crew were rescued, the Telegraph reports.

Photos released by Hong Kong's Government Aviation Service showed a crew member climbing into a rescue helicopter as huge waves hit the ship, which broke in two.

The accident happened about 300 kilometers south of Hong Kong.

The airline did not provide the name or origin of the ship.

A statement said the crew members were encountering difficulties caused by severe tropical storm Chaba, which had maximum winds of 110 kilometers per hour.

/Telegraph/