A devastating fire has engulfed multiple high-rise residential buildings at Wang Fuk Court, a 2,000-unit complex in Hong Kong’s northern Tai Po district, leaving at least four people dead, including a firefighter. The blaze broke out on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at approximately 2:51 pm local time and quickly spread along bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings.
Smoke and flames poured from the towers, trapping several residents and prompting an immediate emergency response. Seven people were rushed to nearby hospitals, including two in critical condition and one stable, while firefighters tackling the blaze sustained injuries during rescue operations.
The Hong Kong Fire Department upgraded the emergency to a level 4 incident at 3:34 pm, mobilizing additional personnel to suppress the fire and evacuate residents. Authorities closed a section of the Tai Po highway and diverted public transport to allow unobstructed access for emergency services.
As the fire continues to be brought under control, evacuations of nearby buildings have been carried out as a precaution. Temporary shelters have been established at the Kwong Fuk Community Hall and the Tung Cheong Street Leisure Building, while a help desk has been set up at Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital. A hotline (2658 4040) is also available for assistance and public inquiries.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials are working to determine whether more residents may still be trapped or injured. The Tai Po District Office is closely monitoring the situation and has stated that additional shelters will be opened if necessary.
This tragic incident has raised serious concerns about fire safety in Hong Kong’s high-density residential estates, highlighting the challenges of protecting residents in large, closely packed tower blocks. Authorities have pledged to provide ongoing updates as the situation develops.
