Tragic Apartment Fires in Hong Kong: A Community in Crisis

Sun Nov 30 2025 00:34:15 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A devastating fire in a Hong Kong apartment complex has claimed at least 13 lives and left numerous residents displaced and injured. As the city grapples with the aftermath, questions arise about safety measures and emergency response.

A catastrophic fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, resulting in at least 13 fatalities and 15 injuries. With several residents still missing, the community faces an ongoing crisis as evacuations and emergency services are mobilized. Concerns about the use of bamboo scaffolding and fire safety protocols have been raised in light of the rapid spread of the fire.

A devastating fire has ripped through several high-rise tower blocks in Hong Kong, killing at least 13 people and injuring 15 more. There are reports of missing people, and thousands have been evacuated to nearby shelters.

Pictures show several buildings ablaze, and thick smoke billowing into the air, dominating Hong Kong's skyline.

As night fell, the fire was still burning hours after it was first reported, with 767 firefighters deployed to the scene.

What caused the blaze is still unclear, but here is what we do know so far.

Where and when did the fire start?

The blaze broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a large housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, at 14:51 local time on Wednesday (06:51 GMT).

Wang Fuk Court consists of eight tower blocks, which are each 31 storeys high. Seven of them have been affected by the fire, as confirmed by local officials.

Built in 1983, these towers are home to around 4,600 residents. The buildings were undergoing renovations, featuring bamboo scaffolding that may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.

How serious is the fire?

The Hong Kong fire department has classified the blaze as a level five alarm - the highest in severity. It has been 17 years since a similar event occurred in the city. Local reports suggested explosions could be heard inside the building, complicating firefighting efforts.

What do we know about the victims?

The Hong Kong government initially reported four fatalities, but this number quickly rose to 13 as the search for missing persons continues. Among the deceased is a firefighter, Ho Wai-ho, who was on duty during the incident.

Emergency hotline and shelters set up

The massive evacuation has led to emergency shelters being established for residents displaced by the fire. Several evacuation centers were reported full, with ongoing efforts to provide support for affected individuals.

Hong Kong and bamboo scaffolding

The use of bamboo scaffolding, a traditional construction method in Hong Kong, is now facing scrutiny. As safety concerns rise, the local government has been considering phasing out bamboo due to its high combustibility and related hazards.

This tragedy has sparked a broader conversation about building safety and the community's emergency preparedness as Hong Kong continues to confront this crisis.