A massive fire swept through several high-rise apartment buildings in Hong Kong on Wednesday, according to TMZ. At least 13 people were pronounced dead, leaving many others trapped as the flames continued to burn.
CNN reported that seven of the eight towers in the Wang Fuk Court complex, a development with about 2,000 apartments, were still burning as rescuers worked to reach those stuck inside.
Fires of this scale are uncommon in Hong Kong, even with the frequent use of bamboo scaffolding. In this case, the flames tore through the scaffolding and quickly grew into what may be the region’s deadliest fire in nearly three decades.
About 767 firefighters were sent to battle the blaze, according to CNN. One firefighter was among the 13 people confirmed dead. Authorities said 15 others were injured, and the government has opened temporary shelters for residents forced from their homes.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?