Tragedy struck Hong Kong’s Tai Po district as a massive fire tore through a high-rise residential building on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of 13 people and injuries to several others. The fire began in the afternoon and swiftly ascended the exterior of the buildings, fueled by extensive bamboo scaffolding and netting. The situation escalated rapidly, with flames and smoke billowing from multiple residential units by evening, prompting emergency services to activate the highest level 5 alert.
Of the casualties, nine individuals were found dead at the site, and an additional four passed away after being hospitalized. Around 700 residents were urgently evacuated and provided with temporary accommodation. Disturbing footage showed at least five buildings engulfed in flames, casting an ominous glow over the city. A local official indicated that many of the trapped occupants were elderly individuals, underscoring the specific risks faced by vulnerable populations in such emergencies. The widespread use of bamboo scaffolding, a traditional yet increasingly scrutinized building material, is under renewed focus. Authorities are actively investigating the origin of the fire and the full extent of the destruction.