A major fire at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong left at least four people dead and several others injured, and many residents were trapped in their apartments. Bamboo scaffolding may have accelerated the blaze.
A devastating fire broke out in several buildings at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in northern Hong Kong this afternoon. Footage showed a horrific scenario: flames blazed on almost every floor while thick smoke billowed into the sky.
Residents cannot leave the multi-storey building
At least four people died and seven others were injured, two of them critically. Many residents were unable to leave their apartments due to the pungent smoke, police and media reported. Firefighters also suffered injuries in the operation. The emergency call reached authorities at 2:51 p.m. local time. Shortly after, according to the Reuters news agency, the fire was raised to level 4 – the second highest alert level.
Emergency accommodation for those affected
The affected complex consists of eight high-rise buildings with around 2,000 apartments. According to “Bild”, initial indications suggest that bamboo scaffolding on the facade could accelerate the spread of the fire.
As a result of the fire, the road was closed and bus routes were diverted. Authorities provided emergency shelter for affected residents, Reuters reported.
