Tai Po, Hong Kong — A significant fire incident at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate has led to the evacuation of over a thousand residents, as emergency services and local officials respond to the unfolding crisis. The fire, which erupted in the afternoon, quickly impacted seven of the eight blocks at the estate, all of which are currently undergoing extensive renovations.

Tai Po District Councillor Mui Siu-fung provided details about the blaze, stating that flames were visible through the windows of the block where the fire originated. Fortunately, one block initially had a minor fire that was quickly extinguished by firefighters, preventing it from escalating further. However, Mui expressed concerns about the challenges faced by firefighting teams, who have yet to safely enter the damaged buildings to conduct search and rescue operations.

As the fire spread, residents began evacuating around 3 p.m. local time, with Mui estimating that approximately 95% of them had successfully left the premises. He mentioned that three nearby public housing blocks were also cleared as a precautionary measure. Evacuation points were established at local sites, including the Kwong Fuk Shopping Centre, where more than a thousand displaced residents found temporary refuge.

In response to the crisis, the Home Affairs Department has opened community centers and some schools as temporary shelters to accommodate the evacuees. Local officials are working closely with emergency services to assess the damage and ensure the safety of all residents.

The situation remains fluid, and authorities are focused on providing assistance to those affected while evaluating the extent of the fire’s impact. Residents have expressed their appreciation for the swift response by emergency services amid chaotic circumstances.

Ongoing updates will be provided as the situation develops, and efforts continue to restore normalcy to the community. Local officials are urging residents to remain patient and stay informed through official channels as recovery operations unfold.