A devastating fire has ripped through several high-rise tower blocks in Hong Kong, killing at least 44 people, making it the deadliest in more than 60 years. More than 270 have been reported missing, and thousands of residents are in evacuation shelters.
Pictures show several buildings ablaze, with thick smoke billowing into the air, dominating the skyline. As night fell, the fire was still burning hours after it was first reported, with over 760 firefighters deployed to the scene.
Three men have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection to the fire, and an investigation has been launched. Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed condolences to the victims, including a firefighter who lost his life during the incident.
The blaze broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a large housing complex in Tai Po district at 14:51 local time. This complex consists of eight tower blocks, each 31 storeys tall, two of which were under renovation procedures, making the situation more precarious.
The fire quickly spread through the bamboo scaffolding enveloping the buildings. Residents reported that fire alarms did not activate, and early investigations suggest the rapid spread of the flames due to the use of flammable materials like polystyrene around the windows.
The Hong Kong fire department has classified this catastrophe as a level five alarm, the highest severity, and has deployed significant resources including over 767 firefighters, 128 fire engines, and numerous police officers to help control the situation.
As rescue efforts continue, the death toll rose sharply, with officials initially reporting 13 deaths that jumped to 36 and then to 44 as the situation developed. Many families are still searching for their loved ones, and police are helping residents reach out for missing family members.
Shelters have been established for evacuated residents, with authorities working to accommodate those affected. Local schools in Tai Po have also been closed as part of emergency measures.
The current focus remains on containment and rescue, but ongoing investigations will determine if negligence led to the tragic explosion of flames in this high-density residential area.
