Four dead as major fire breaks out in northern HK housing estate

The blaze started at 2:51 pm at Wang Fuk Court and was upgraded to the No 4 alarm at 3:34 pm, the Fire Services Department said. Wang Fuk Court, which is under renovation, is a housing complex made up of eight blocks, providing close to 2,000 residential units.

A man and a woman suffered severe burns while some residents called the police as they were trapped in their flats. Some fire service staff members have also been injured, while trying to put out the flames.

"Residents nearby are advised to stay indoors, close their doors and windows, and stay calm. Members of the public are also advised to avoid going to the area affected by the fire," the fire department said.

Kwong Fuk Community Hall and the Tung Cheong Street Community Hall have been open to residents in need of temporary accommodation.

The CCC Fung Leung Kit Memorial Secondary School has also been opened to house evacuated residents.

The Tai Po District Office also set up an assistance station at the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital to provide support and answer inquiries. Residents can contact the assistance station hotline at 2658-4040.

The district office said that it will continue to monitor the situation closely and open more temporary shelters should the need arise.