Skyscrapers ablaze, people trapped: Massive fire rages in Hong Kong, footage

So far, 13 people have been reported dead as a result of a massive fire that engulfed several high-rise buildings in a residential complex in Hong Kong. In addition, 28 people were injured, six of whom were hospitalized in serious condition.

What is known about the cause of the fire

The flames engulfed eight blocks of the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in the Tai Po district. The complex has a total of 2,000 apartments, home to around 4,600 people.

The fire was caused by the ignition of bamboo scaffolding and netting that surrounded the buildings during renovation. Local residents had complained about workers smoking while on the job.

Authorities have classified the fire at the highest, fifth level of danger.

Currently, 737 firefighters are battling the blaze. One of them died in the hospital after being admitted with facial burns.

Mass evacuation

The fire was reported at 02:51 PM, and by 03:00 PM, residents of the residential complex had begun evacuating. Hong Kong's Ministry of Home Affairs opened several community centers as temporary shelters, and some schools are also accommodating evacuees.

Photo: massive fire in Hong Kong on November 26 (Getty Images)

Police received reports of at least 13 people trapped within the complex.

According to the Hong Kong Transport Department, several roads have been closed and routes for more than 30 bus lines have been altered to avoid the fire. The department added that it is "closely monitoring the road situation in real time."

The last fifth-level fire in Hong Kong occurred 17 years ago. In 2008, a fire broke out in the Cornwall Court building in the Mong Kok business district, killing four people.

Previously, on November 20, two days before the conclusion of the UN climate negotiations in Belém, a massive fire broke out. Thirteen people received medical attention due to smoke inhalation.