Major Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Claims Dozens of Lives
A catastrophic fire has torn through a high-rise residential complex in Hong Kong, resulting in a significant loss of life and a massive emergency response. At least 36 people have been confirmed dead, including one firefighter, according to Hong Kong leader John Lee.
The blaze broke out at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in the Tai Po district at 2.51pm local time on Wednesday 26 November 2025. The fire rapidly spread across bamboo scaffolding that was erected around the exterior of the buildings, which were undergoing renovation work.
Hundreds Unaccounted For Amid Rescue Efforts
Officials have stated that the situation remains critical, with a staggering 279 people reported as uncontactable in the aftermath. An unknown number of individuals are still believed to be trapped inside the burning towers as emergency services continue their desperate rescue operations.
Video and pictures from the scene showed a horrifying sight, with at least five of the 31-storey towers ablaze. Thick, grey smoke billowed from the buildings, and flames were still visible shooting from windows after nightfall. Firefighters have been seen aiming water jets at the intense flames from elevated ladder appliances in a relentless battle to control the inferno.
Scale of the Disaster and Safety Concerns
The scale of the disaster is immense. The Wang Fuk Court site consists of eight residential blocks housing close to 2,000 apartments and has been occupied since 1983. In response, authorities have evacuated approximately 700 residents to temporary shelters.
A number of firefighters were also injured while tackling the flames. The use of bamboo scaffolding, a common sight at construction and renovation projects across Hong Kong, is now a central focus of the investigation. The government had previously announced plans to phase out its use on public projects earlier this year due to safety concerns.
Tai Po is located in the northern part of Hong Kong, near the border with the mainland Chinese city of Shenzhen. As the rescue mission continues, the community faces a devastating loss and a long road to recovery.
