 "Flames swept through bamboo scaffolding spanning several buildings at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on November 26. (Reuters)")
A fire broke out on Wednesday at several high-rise blocks within a residential housing complex in Hong Kong’s northern Tai Po district, sending thick grey smoke into the sky as emergency crews worked to contain the flames.
Public broadcaster RTHK, citing police, reported that several people were trapped inside the buildings, while two individuals sustained severe burns. Fire services staff were also injured while battling the blaze.
According to the fire department, the initial alert was received at 2:51 p.m. (0651 GMT) after flames were spotted at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The alarm level was raised to No. 4, the second-highest classification, at 3:34 p.m.
Transport disruption as authorities close key highway
Wang Fuk Court comprises eight residential blocks offering close to 2,000 units. Several surrounding towers have bamboo scaffolding fixed to their exterior. Hong Kong’s Transport Department announced that a full section of the Tai Po highway had been closed due to the fire, with bus routes diverted while emergency operations continued.