A huge fire broke out in several tall residential buildings in the Tai Po area of northern Hong Kong on Wednesday afternoon. The incident quickly became one of the major emergencies reported in the Latest News, as thick grey smoke filled the sky and firefighters rushed to control the flames. According to local reports, many people were stuck inside their homes, and rescue teams were working nonstop to reach them.
This Breaking News situation created panic among residents living in and around the housing complex, especially as videos shared online showed large clouds of smoke and burning debris falling from the tower. The event has now become one of the top Daily news highlights across Hong Kong and beyond.
How the Fire Started
According to the Hong Kong Fire Services Department, the fire was reported at 2:51 p.m. local time. The location was identified as Wang Fuk Court, a big public housing complex in Tai Po. Within minutes, fire engines, ambulances, and emergency officers reached the spot.
- The fire started inside one of the high-rise blocks.
- Emergency teams reached within minutes but found heavy smoke already spreading.
- The fire was upgraded to a No. 4 alarm at 3:34 p.m., which is the second-highest emergency level used in Hong Kong.
- Heavy winds made it harder for firefighters to control the flames.
A No. 4 alarm means a very serious danger, and it requires huge manpower, specialized rescue equipment, and advanced support teams.
People Trapped and Injured
Local broadcaster RTHK reported that several residents were trapped inside their apartments when the fire spread. Police officers also confirmed that at least two people suffered serious burns, and some firefighters were also injured while trying to enter the burning structure.
- Some residents were unable to escape because smoke filled the hallways and staircases.
- Firefighters had to use ladders and break into windows to reach people.
- At least two individuals received major burn injuries and were quickly rushed to hospitals.
- Several rescue workers suffered eye and breathing problems due to the thick smoke.
Residents who escaped said the fire spread faster than they expected, and many described scenes of chaos as alarms rang and people ran down the stairs.
About Wang Fuk Court
Wang Fuk Court is not a single building; it is a large housing complex with eight tall towers. Together, these towers provide around 2,000 apartments, making it one of the major residential locations in Tai Po.
- Many buildings in this complex have bamboo scaffolding covering their outer walls due to ongoing repair and maintenance work.
- Bamboo scaffolding can catch fire easily, which may have helped the flames spread faster.
- Noise barriers and connected walkways around the buildings made it harder for firefighters to move freely.
Residents said they were worried that the bamboo structures around the burning tower could collapse or help the fire reach nearby blocks.
Transport Disruption Across Tai Po
The massive fire also affected road traffic in the northern part of Hong Kong. The Transport Department confirmed that a major section of the Tai Po Highway had to be closed for safety reasons.
Travel impact:
- Buses were diverted to other routes.
- Heavy traffic was reported in several nearby areas.
- Police asked the public to avoid the Tai Po district unless necessary.
- Emergency vehicles were given priority lanes to reach the scene quickly.
This disruption affected office workers, schoolchildren, and travelers returning home, adding to stress during the emergency.
Government & Public Response
The incident quickly drew attention from government officials and the wider public. Many people shared videos, photos, and updates on social media, making it a top trend in Hong Kong and global searches. Authorities reminded the public not to spread false information and to follow official Breaking News updates only.
Government actions:
- More than 100 firefighters and rescue workers were deployed.
- Drones were used to check rooftops and locate people needing help.
- Police set up safety barriers around the danger zone.
- Medical teams prepared emergency units for incoming patients.
People living in nearby buildings were advised to keep windows closed, use masks, and stay indoors due to the harmful smoke.
