A devastating fire swept through seven high rise buildings in a Hong Kong housing complex on Wednesday, killing 13 people and injuring at least 15 more. Hundreds of residents were evacuated as the blaze rapidly expanded across bamboo scaffolding and construction netting surrounding the Wang Fuk Court estate in Tai Po, a densely populated district in the New Territories.
Fire Spreads Across Multiple Buildings
Authorities said the fire began mid afternoon on external scaffolding before spreading into one building and then to adjacent blocks, driven in part by strong winds. The housing complex consists of eight towers with nearly 2,000 apartments and about 4,800 residents. By evening, the blaze had intensified to a level 5 alarm, the highest severity rating in the city.
Video from the scene showed flames shooting from dozens of windows as thick smoke poured into the night sky. More than 128 fire trucks and 57 ambulances were deployed, with firefighters using ladder trucks to combat the flames from above.
Casualties and Rescue Challenges
Nine victims were pronounced dead at the scene, and four others died in hospital. Among the dead was one firefighter, and another is being treated for heat exhaustion. Officials said dozens of residents called for help during the fire, with some still trapped late into the night.
Derek Armstrong Chan, deputy director of Fire Services (Operations), described extremely hazardous conditions: “Debris and scaffolding of the affected buildings are falling down. The temperature inside the buildings is very high. It’s difficult for us to enter and go upstairs to conduct firefighting and rescue operations.”
Community Impact and Ongoing Response
Around 700 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters as district officials organized emergency support. Many of those trapped or struggling to escape were believed to be elderly, according to local representatives.
Residents expressed shock and frustration as they watched their homes burn. One man, identified only as Wu, told local media he had “given up thinking” about his property due to the overwhelming destruction.
Safety Concerns Over Scaffolding
Bamboo scaffolding is commonly used in Hong Kong, though the government has recently discussed phasing it out for public projects due to safety risks. Investigators have not yet determined the cause of the fire, but officials noted that the blaze began on external scaffolding before spreading rapidly across the complex.
