MWE Correspondent
A massive overnight fire in Hong Kong has left 13 people dead and at least 15 others injured after flames tore through residential buildings in the Tai Po district, prompting one of the region’s largest recent emergency responses and throwing thousands of residents into shock and displacement.
The blaze erupted in the early hours of November 26, 2025, engulfing parts of the Wang Fuk Court residential complex, a housing estate that accommodates an estimated 4,600 residents in northern Hong Kong. Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke rising rapidly as alarms rang out and families scrambled to escape their homes, some still in their nightclothes.
Emergency crews arrived within minutes, but officials said the scale and speed of the fire made rescue efforts extremely challenging. More than 700 firefighters and rescue personnel were deployed to the scene, supported by dozens of fire engines and ambulances that continued to arrive throughout the night. Authorities confirmed that some victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while others succumbed to their injuries after being rushed to nearby hospitals.
Government officials announced that over 1,000 residents were evacuated from the burning buildings and surrounding blocks as a precaution. Evacuees were taken to temporary shelters set up in schools and community halls, with several education facilities suspending classes to accommodate displaced families and emergency staff.
Humanitarian organizations and local volunteers began mobilizing shortly after daybreak, distributing food, water, blankets, and basic supplies to affected households. Medical teams, including trauma specialists and emergency physicians, were positioned at shelters and hospitals to support both the injured and those showing signs of shock, distress, and smoke inhalation.
Also Read; Tanzania Leader Rejects Class-Based Society Concept
Authorities said the cause of the blaze is still under investigation, though early assessments by building safety analysts suggested the flames may have accelerated due to wooden support structures temporarily installed as part of ongoing renovation work. Officials cautioned that a full inquiry is underway and that any structural or regulatory lapses will be examined closely.
China’s President Xi Jinping extended condolences to the families of the victims and praised the bravery of emergency responders who worked through the night to rescue trapped residents. He said the central government would provide both financial assistance and technical support to Hong Kong as recovery efforts continue.
The tragedy has also reignited conversations about safety standards in densely populated cities like Hong Kong, where high-rise living and aging buildings present complex challenges for fire prevention and emergency access. Experts noted that issues surrounding fire safety have long been part of broader discussions on public safety and urban planning in major cities across China. The incident further highlights the critical role of professional emergency response systems such as firefighting services, especially in high-density residential zones.
While the investigations continue, officials urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation while rescue teams complete their work. A government statement indicated that updates would be released in the coming days, and support will remain available for those who have lost loved ones, homes, or belongings.
