On the afternoon of November 26, at the Wang Fuk Court residential area in Tai Po district, Hong Kong (China), a serious fire broke out, turning the residential complex into a thamical scene.
The incident began in the afternoon when the fire started from a building undergoing exterior renovation. Strong winds combined with the construction characteristics here have caused the situation to quickly get out of control. The fire reached the bamboo scaffolding system surrounding the buildings, creating a fire-carrying substance that spread quickly. In a short time, at least 4 out of 8 towers in the complex were engulfed in fire and thick columns of black smoke.
In the face of complicated developments, the Hong Kong Fire Department (China) has continuously raised the warning level. From the initial level 1, the alarm was raised to level 4 at 15:34. The peak was at 6:22 p.m., when the authorities had to issue a level 5 alert - the highest level on the fire scale. This is the first time in 17 years, since the 2008 Cornwall Court fire, that Hong Kong (China) has had to activate this disaster alert level.
As of 20:36 on the same day, the authorities confirmed that the number of dead had reached 13. Of which, 9 bodies were found at the scene and 4 victims died at the hospital. Notably, a firefighter died while on duty to rescue people. At least 16 others are in critical condition. Rescue forces said they continue to receive reports of victims trapped or unconscious in the apartments.
The scene of the fire was chaotic as the nets and bamboo caught fire and fell to the ground. In the blocked area, many residents expressed their despair and concern for their relatives still stuck. Some survivors criticized the authorities' response, questioning the slow implementation of strong measures such as helicopters dropping water bombs to prevent the fire from spreading.
Regarding the cause, initial investigations are focusing on the suspicion of cigarette butts by building repair workers. The construction of renovation with flammable materials such as bamboo that lack strict safety measures is being considered the direct cause of the tragedy.
The fire shocked the area. Special Zone Commander John Lee Ka-chiu activated the emergency monitoring center and sent condolences to the victim's family. Major political parties have also announced the suspension of election activities. In addition to the human damage, rescue organizations estimate that more than 100 pets are also trapped in the fire.
