On Wednesday afternoon, a fierce fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong, engulfing multiple high-rise residential towers and killing at least 13 people, officials confirmed. The blaze first reported around 14:51 local time rapidly spread across exterior bamboo scaffolding and construction netting surrounding the buildings, prompting authorities to raise the alert to a No. 5 alarm, the city’s highest level of fire emergency.
Firefighters struggled to contain the inferno as thick black smoke and orange flames shot out of windows and engulfed at least seven of the complex’s eight 31-storey towers. Debris and collapsing scaffolding hindered rescue efforts, and some residents were reported to have remained trapped inside as night fell.
Of the 13 confirmed dead, nine were found at the scene and four more succumbed to injuries in hospital. Among the deceased was a firefighter who lost contact with his team during the rescue operation. At least 15 others sustained injuries, some critical, and dozens more may still be unaccounted for.
The estate comprises nearly 2,000 apartments and was home to roughly 4,800 residents many of whom have now been displaced. Authorities evacuated around 700 people to temporary shelters set up in nearby community halls and leisure centres, while roads near the scene were closed and bus routes diverted to facilitate emergency response.
Residents described terrifying scenes as the fire spread. One long-time inhabitant said he heard a “very loud noise” shortly before flames erupted, and rushed to gather belongings. Others said they were unsure whether their loved ones had escaped.
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The use of bamboo scaffolding once common in Hong Kong renovation work is under renewed scrutiny, with safety concerns sharply raised in light of the blaze’s rapid spread. The external scaffolding, wrapped in mesh netting and under renovation, is believed to have helped the fire leap between buildings.
Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the fire’s cause, though early reports indicate windy conditions may have worsened the spread. Meanwhile, emergency services remain on high alert and support teams are working to provide shelter, medical care, and counselling to survivors and displaced residents.
As the city grapples with the aftermath, local officials have pledged comprehensive support for those affected and warned of potential long-term displacement issues.
