Huge fire rips through buildings as people 'unable to escape' while firefighters scramble

Fire ripping through buildings (Image: Stheadline)

Four people have died and several injured as firefighters scrambled to quash a fire that's spread quickly to other residential buildings. The fire reportedly broke out at Hung Cheong Court in Hung Fuk Estate, Tai Po district in Hong Kong on Wednesday.

According to the reports, one firefighter has died and three are injured while many people left trapped in the building. The blaze quickly intensified, producing thick smoke that alarmed residents and prompted multiple reports. When firefighters arrived, they discovered the building’s exterior scaffolding engulfed in flames and deployed two hoses along with two teams equipped with breathing apparatus to tackle the situation. It is believed that a firefighter fell during the rescue operation and was taken to the hospital for treatment, reports news.tvb. 

The Fire Services Department confirmed that the fire was escalated to level 3 by 3:02 PM and further upgraded to level 4 at 3:34 PM. 

The blaze at Hung Fuk Court continued for several hours, during which multiple explosions were reported at the site, intensifying the danger. Thick smoke from the fire spread widely and was so heavy that it could be seen from the neighboring Sha Tin district, underscoring the scale and severity of the incident.

Initial reports suggested that at least eight people were reported injured in the incident, with three found unconscious and the remaining five conscious but requiring hospital treatment. However, the official numbers are yet to be confirmed. 

Among the casualties, two sustained severe burns, highlighting the seriousness of the blaze. In addition, several residents were trapped and unable to escape on their own, needing urgent assistance from emergency responders to reach safety.

The fire department said: "Residents nearby are advised to stay indoors, close their doors and windows, and stay calm. Members of the public are also advised to avoid going to the area affected by the fire."

Several sections of the roads have been closed and buses have been routed as the firefighters continue to tackle the fire.