A tragic fire in Hong Kong has claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals as it ravaged multiple high-rise buildings.
The catastrophic flames have overtaken tower blocks at Wang Fuk Court, with video evidence revealing at least five buildings consumed by the fire.
Among the deceased is a firefighter, authorities confirmed.
Currently, 15 people have been reported as injured, with three in critical condition due to severe burns.
Fire officials have yet to determine the number of individuals present in the buildings, including those potentially trapped by the blaze, which ignited around 2:51 pm local time on November 26.
Though the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, it is suspected that bamboo scaffolding on the buildings may have facilitated its spread.
An extensive emergency response is underway, with approximately 700 firefighters deployed to control the inferno.
Authorities have identified the fallen firefighter as Ho Wai-ho, age 37, who passed away at Prince of Wales Hospital after collapsing on site.
Hong Kong’s director of fire services, Andy Yeung, stated: “Having been a member of the Fire Services Department for about nine years, Mr Ho’s performance was valiant. I am profoundly grieved at the loss of this dedicated and gallant fireman.
“All of our colleagues are deeply saddened by the loss of such a devoted comrade. On behalf of all our colleagues, I have offered the deepest condolences to his family.”
According to Tai Po District Councillor Mui Siu-fung, over 1,000 residents have been relocated to a shelter from the affected area in the north of Hong Kong, as reported to the BBC.
Among those evacuated is Harry Cheung, who has resided in block two at Wang Fuk Court for over four decades, as he shared with Reuters.
Cheung recounted hearing ‘a very loud noise’ around 6:45 am GMT, or 2:45 pm local time.
“I immediately went back to pack up my things,” he explained, expressing uncertainty about his feelings, and adding, “I’m just thinking about where I’m going to sleep tonight because I probably won’t be able to go back home.”
Wang Fuk Court, according to its website, has been occupied since 1983.
This housing complex operates under a government initiative for subsidized home ownership and houses approximately 4,600 residents.