A devastating blaze tore through a residential estate in Wang Fuk Court, located in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong, on Wednesday. The fire which began around 2:51 p.m. local time quickly spread across bamboo scaffolding erected on the exterior of the residential towers. Within minutes it was escalated to a “No. 4 alarm” blaze, the city’s second-highest fire severity level.
Authorities confirmed at least four people died in the fire. Several others remain hospitalised, with at least two in critical condition after suffering severe burns. Some residents were reported trapped inside as flames and thick smoke engulfed multiple buildings.
Eyewitnesses described dramatic scenes: dark smoke billowing from high-rises, flames visible on multiple floors, and firefighters battling the inferno using ladder trucks. The blaze consumed at least three towers part of a complex of eight blocks comprising close to 2,000 flats.
The incident has prompted renewed alarm over the use of bamboo scaffolding and flammable exterior netting on older residential blocks a common practice in parts of Hong Kong. In recent years, officials had started reviewing fire-safety standards in older buildings, but repeated fires continue to raise serious concerns.
Local authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the blaze. As of now, the exact trigger remains unknown. Rescue and recovery efforts are ongoing, with emergency services urging residents in surrounding areas to avoid the site.
