Flames engulfed three blocks. Fire in Hong Kong claims dead and injured

Tragedy struck Hong Kong's Tai Po district, where a devastating fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex on Wednesday. The blaze, which quickly spread through bamboo scaffolding, claimed four victims, including a firefighter, and at least three injured.

According to the South China Morning Post, residents were left trapped in the flames, with some unconscious and suffering serious burns.

Local police registered multiple calls for help from people who were unable to get out of the affected towers.

Although the fire was initially classified as a low-level blaze, authorities reclassified it to a level four fire, which is already a serious risk, shortly after mid-afternoon.

Dark clouds of smoke billowed over the city and dramatic footage showed burning sections of scaffolding falling to the ground. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

(loot)