Hong Kong Hit by Deadliest Fire in Decades: 55 Dead, Nearly 300 Missing in Tai Po Wang Fuk Court Blaze

Fire Breaks Out Amid Renovation Works Involving Bamboo Scaffolding

The massive blaze erupted at approximately 2:51 pm on November 26, 2025, starting from bamboo scaffolding surrounding the eight 35-storey residential blocks of Wang Fuk Court during exterior renovation. Strong winds and burning debris rapidly spread the flames from one tower to another, engulfing all eight buildings within hours.

The use of traditional bamboo scaffolding – common in Hong Kong renovations – is now under intense scrutiny, as the highly flammable material fueled the fire’s explosive spread.

Casualties and Rescue Challenges

- 55 confirmed deaths, including one firefighter

- Nearly 300 people still unaccounted for

- Hundreds injured, many elderly residents who were unable to escape quickly

- Extreme heat prevented firefighters from accessing upper floors for over 20 hours

- Over 200 fire engines and 100 ambulances deployed – one of the largest responses in Hong Kong history

Residents reported hearing the terrifying crackle of burning bamboo from miles away. Many elderly tenants, a significant portion of Wang Fuk Court’s population, were resting at home when the fire broke out and could not evacuate in time.

Arrests Made: Contractor and Two Others Detained

Hong Kong Police have arrested three individuals, including the renovation contractor, on suspicion of negligence and manslaughter. Investigations are ongoing into possible safety violations during the repair works.

Government and International Response

Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed deep grief and ordered all-out efforts to rescue survivors and support affected families.

The Hong Kong government has:

- Opened temporary shelters at Kwong Fuk Community Hall and Tung Cheong Street Leisure Building

- Evacuated over 900 residents

- Suspended all election campaigning ahead of the December 7 Legislative Council election

- Chief Executive John Lee is considering postponing the election

Condolences have poured in from countries including Japan, Germany, Britain, Canada, and the United States. McDonald’s Hong Kong announced the donation of 1,000 free meal packages to affected residents and rescue workers.

Worst Fire in Hong Kong Since 1950s

This tragedy surpasses previous major incidents and is now confirmed as the deadliest residential fire in Hong Kong in over 63 years, with some reports calling it the worst in 77 years.

While deadly high-rise fires were once more common in Hong Kong, improved building codes and fire safety standards had significantly reduced such incidents in recent decades – making Wednesday’s disaster even more shocking.

Ongoing Situation

As of Thursday afternoon, firefighters continue battling remaining hotspots. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with fears the death toll may rise significantly as teams access upper floors.

Authorities are urging the public to avoid the Tai Po area as roads remain closed and nearby buildings evacuated.