WATCH: Deadly Hong Kong High-Rise Fire Claims 36 Lives, 79 Missing In Tai Po | World News

Hong Kong Fire Videos: A fire raged through a high-rise housing estate in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, killing at least 36 people, including a firefighter, while leaving 76 people missing and many residents trapped in smoke-filled apartments. It is stated that at least seven high-rise buildings were destroyed in the fire.

According to local media reports, the fire broke out around 14:50 local time and quickly climbed the exterior of the building, fueled by bamboo scaffolding and green safety nets wrapped around the structure for renovation work. Within minutes, authorities stepped up the response to alert No. 4, one of Hong Kong’s highest emergency alert levels.

Dramatic images from the scene

Video clips show multiple blocks of the complex being engulfed, flames shooting upwards and thick black smoke rising from several floors. As burning bamboo rained down, firefighters on elevated platforms could be seen trying to contain the inferno.

13 DIE IN HONG KONG FIRE
Huge skyscrapers in Hong Kong went up in flames; Many blocks are burning, residents are trapped, evacuations are ongoing, and there is a tragic loss of life, including a firefighter.#HongKong pic.twitter.com/Sv5hXIlywu— Sarcastic (@sarcastic_us) 26 November 2025

densely populated neighborhood

Government data shows the affected property includes eight residential towers with approximately 2,000 apartments and is home to more than 4,800 residents. Tai Po is located in the city’s New Quarters, which are full of high-rise buildings, raising fears of its spread over a wider area.

Rescue operations continue

He said emergency services were working floor by floor to find people still trapped as they battled hot spots along the scaffolded front. Temporary shelters were opened for families who had to be evacuated.

Authorities have not yet announced what triggered the fire and investigations are ongoing.