Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Claims Four Lives in Tai Po
A devastating Hong Kong high-rise fire broke out in the Tai Po district on Wednesday, engulfing multiple residential towers in flames and thick smoke. Four people have died, while several others remain trapped inside the burning buildings, according to local authorities. Two victims are reported to be in critical condition with severe burns.
Firefighters Battle Tower Blaze Amid Dangerous Conditions
Emergency services rushed to Wang Fuk Court, a residential complex of eight high-rise blocks housing roughly 2,000 people. Firefighters faced extreme hazards, with some sustaining injuries while tackling the blaze. They used ladder trucks and high-pressure hoses to fight the flames as thick smoke spread across the neighborhood.
Witnesses gathered on nearby overhead walkways to watch the fire spread across the 31-storey towers. Some buildings were wrapped in traditional bamboo scaffolding, commonly used in Hong Kong for construction and renovation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYpyk8Fq4-4
Road Closures and Emergency Response
The Hong Kong Fire Department received the first report of the fire at 2:51 pm local time and escalated it to a No. 4 alarm by 3:34 pm, one of the city’s highest emergency levels. Authorities temporarily closed a section of Tai Po Road, a key highway, forcing bus diversions and traffic disruptions. Rescue operations continued around the clock.
Cause and Context of the Hong Kong High-Rise Fire
While the exact cause of the blaze remains under investigation, officials noted that the presence of bamboo scaffolding may complicate firefighting efforts. Hong Kong authorities have recently announced plans to phase out bamboo scaffolding for public projects due to safety concerns, highlighting the risks in high-density urban areas.
Residents’ Plight and Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Firefighters continue to assist residents trapped inside the towers. Video footage shows emergency teams directing water from ladders onto the flames. Authorities coordinate rescue operations, prioritizing people in critical condition while searching for others who may still be inside.
