Hong Kong skyscrapers engulfed in flames. At least thirteen people died this Wednesday, November 26 in a fire that broke out on bamboo scaffolding in a housing complex in the administrative area, the local government told AFP. A firefighter was among the dead, according to local media.
“Firefighters treated a total of 28 victims, nine of whom were pronounced dead at the scene. Six others were taken to hospital in serious condition, four of whom ultimately died. Chou Wing-yin, fire chief, said in a press conference at around 8:15 p.m. (12.15 GMT).
Firefighters were deployed this Wednesday afternoon after a call reported a fire in the Tai Po district in northern Hong Kong. Images broadcast by local media showed thick clouds of smoke rising from the scaffolding of several towers.
Authorities partially closed a nearby highway as firefighters continued to battle the blaze into the afternoon. Advice from the Hong Kong Fire Department “Local residents should stay at home, close their doors and windows and remain calm” and to the public “to avoid going to fire-affected areas”.
Last month, a fire broke out on the scaffolding of a building in Hong Kong’s central business district leaving four people injured.
Renew at 13:51. with an update on the number of deaths.
