Thirteen people have died and several others sustained injuries after a massive fire erupted and spread through a high-rise building in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday. The fire ignited in the afternoon and rapidly consumed the bamboo scaffolding and construction netting on the building’s exterior. Thick smoke and flames were observed pouring from multiple residential windows by evening, prompting the highest level 5 emergency alert.
Officials confirmed that nine fatalities occurred at the scene, with four additional individuals dying after reaching the hospital. Approximately 700 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters amidst the chaos. Video evidence showed at least five buildings ablaze, a terrifying spectacle that lit up the night. Reports indicate that many of the trapped residents were elderly. The fire has reignited discussions about the safety of bamboo scaffolding, a common feature in Hong Kong construction, with plans already in motion to phase it out from public works. The cause of this devastating fire is currently under investigation, and a comprehensive damage assessment is being conducted.