a huge fire destroyed several blocks in a residential complex on Wednesday Hong Kongcausing the death of at least 13 peopleofficial sources reported.
“The Fire Department treated a total of 28 victims, nine of whom were pronounced dead at the scene. Six others were taken to hospital in serious condition and four of them later died.“Chou Wing-yin, from the fire service, declared at a press conference.
And bomber 37-year-old man found with burns on his face, was pronounced dead after being rushed to hospital, according to Fire Services Director Andy Yeung.
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The immense flames started on the bamboo scaffolding that was erected around several of the complex’s towers. Wang Fuk Courtin Tai Po, a district in the northern part of the Chinese financial center, before expanding.
An AFP journalist heard loud crackling sounds, possibly from burning bamboo, and saw thick plumes of smoke rising from at least five of the complex’s eight buildings.
“There is nothing that can be done for the property. We are concerned that people are trapped inside“said a 57-year-old resident named So.
The police claimed to have received reports of trapped residents in buildings, according to Hong Kong media. Agents at the scene stated, on condition of anonymity, that they could not confirm whether there were people trapped as night fell, explaining that “the firefighters cannot enter.”
The authorities declared that it is a “Five Alarm” firethe highest level.
Evacuation of surrounding buildings
The diary South China Morning Post reported that police had begun evacuating two buildings in another nearby residential complex.
“The fire is not controlled and I dare not leave. “I don’t know what I can do,” said a neighbor in his 40s.
Authorities set up an emergency phone line and opened two temporary shelters in community centers for evacuated residents. It is also They closed sections of a highway nearby due to extinction efforts.
“Surrounding residents are advised to stay indoors, close doors and windows and remain calm,” the Department of Fire Services stressed.
“The public is also advised to avoid going to the area affected by the fire.“he added.
The Association for the Rights of Victims of Industrial Accidents expressed “deep concern” about scaffolding-related fires, pointing to similar incidents in April, May and October.
The authorities have not yet reported on the possible causes of the disaster.