A devastating fire has swept through a cluster of high-rise apartment blocks in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district, killing at least 36 people and leaving 279 others uncontactable, according to Chief Executive John Lee. The blaze, described by officials as one of the city’s deadliest in nearly 30 years, continues to burn in several towers.
Seven of Eight Towers Still Ablaze
The fire erupted Wednesday afternoon at Wang Fuk Court, rapidly climbing bamboo scaffolding and spreading across seven of the estate’s eight residential blocks, home to many elderly residents. Heavy smoke, falling debris, and extreme heat prevented firefighters from reaching multiple upper floors, where some residents remain trapped.
Firefighting Efforts Intensify
More than 800 firefighters and paramedics and 140 fire engines are battling the inferno, with drones deployed to locate trapped residents. But soaring internal temperatures and collapsing scaffolding have hampered operations.
A 37-year-old firefighter, surnamed Ho, lost his life during rescue efforts after losing contact with his team.
Hospitals on Emergency Alert
Nine hospitals have activated full emergency protocols.
So far:
- 37 people have been admitted
- 7 remain in critical condition
- Others suffered burns, smoke inhalation, and carbon monoxide poisoning
Medical teams are conducting triage directly at the scene, with additional oxygen-therapy transfers underway.
Hundreds Missing, Residents Plead for Help
An online “self-rescue” list created by residents showed 70+ people calling for urgent help around midnight. Some reported losing contact with family members trapped in upper floors.
Temporary Shelters and Evacuations
Multiple community centres and schools have been converted into shelters as more than 1,900 households were affected.
Residents from neighbouring estates also evacuated, with many forced to stay outdoors amid limited shelter capacity.
Authorities say over 100 pets are believed trapped inside the estate.
Leadership Response
Chief Executive John Lee called the situation a “catastrophe”, activated an emergency support centre, and visited shelters and hospitals overnight.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences and directed mainland offices to offer full support to Hong Kong authorities.
Cause Not Yet Known
While the source of the fire is still under investigation, residents had previously complained about cigarette butts dropped by construction workers on bamboo scaffolding — a detail now under scrutiny.
