Hong Kong Disaster! Wang Fuk Court Fire Kills 44, Nearly 300 Missing in Worst Blaze in 30 Years

On November 26, 2025, a major fire broke out at the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in Tai Po, Hong Kong, which started in the afternoon and continued into the early hours of the following day (Nov 27). The incident has resulted in extensive casualties and prompted authorities to activate full emergency response measures. It is now considered one of the most severe fires Hong Kong has experienced in more than three decades.

A woman receives medical attention at a temporary shelter, after a fire started across multiple buildings at Wang Fuk Court housing estate, in Tai Po, Hong Kong, China, Nov 26, 2025. (Photo: Reuters/Tyrone Siu)

The death toll has risen to at least 44 people, while 279 residents remain missing, leaving hundreds of families anxiously awaiting updates on their loved ones. More than 45 people are reported in critical condition, with 7 severely injured, and one firefighter has died in the line of duty. Over 900 residents were evacuated to eight temporary shelters set up across the district.

Photo: Google maps, Reuters, Nov 26, 2025 / CNA Graphics

Wang Fuk Court comprises eight residential blocks, housing a total of over 2,000 units and approximately 4,600 residents. The 32-storey buildings, constructed in 1983, were undergoing major renovation at the time of the incident. Bamboo scaffolding and green construction netting surrounded the complex, materials known to be highly flammable and believed to have played a critical role in accelerating the spread of the blaze.

Strong winds during the fire further intensified the situation, carrying burning debris from one block to another. As a result, flames rapidly engulfed seven out of the complex’s eight buildings.

Ambulances and firetrucks are parked after a fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court. (Photo: AP/Chan Long Hei)

More than 700-800 firefighters and at least 128 fire engines were deployed throughout the night in an attempt to control the massive blaze. However, extreme heat and hazardous conditions made it difficult for crews to reach the upper floors. Authorities raised the fire alarm to Level 5, the highest level in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong remains one of the few places in the world that still uses bamboo scaffolding for construction. The government had previously announced plans to phase it out starting in March due to safety concerns.

Hong Kong police arrested three male suspects on charges of causing death by negligence, though further details have not yet been released. Local media have suggested the possibility that the fire may have been sparked by workers smoking on or near the bamboo scaffolding, but this theory has not been officially confirmed.

Chief Executive John Lee convened an emergency meeting, emphasizing key priorities: extinguishing the fire, rescuing those trapped, caring for the injured, supporting affected residents, and conducting a thorough investigation.

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a statement expressing condolences and urged authorities in Hong Kong and mainland China to commit all available resources to control the situation and minimize further casualties.

The fire has forced the closure of major roads in Tai Po, resulting in widespread traffic disruptions and the diversion of various bus routes. At least six schools suspended classes on Thursday due to air pollution and transport difficulties.

The incident has drawn global attention, highlighting the risks associated with Hong Kong’s densely populated urban environment and the widespread use of bamboo scaffolding on occupied high-rise buildings. Many experts have likened the situation to a “massive pile of dry wood awaiting a spark”, a scenario that enabled the fire to spread with exceptional speed in one of the most densely populated areas of the city.

Source: CNA

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