Deadly Tai Po High-Rise Fire Sparks Safety Debate on Bamboo Scaffolding in Hong Kong
Hong Kong: At least 36 people have been confirmed dead and nearly 300 remain missing after a massive fire swept through seven high-rise residential towers in the Tai Po district on Wednesday afternoon, officials said.
The fire broke out around 3 p.m. and quickly escalated to a level-5 alarm, the city’s highest alert. The blaze spread rapidly along bamboo scaffolding and construction netting surrounding several buildings undergoing renovation, causing flames to extend vertically and jump from block to block.
At least 36 people were killed, and 279 were missing after Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in three decades ripped through high-rise residential towers sheathed in flammable bamboo scaffolding, authorities said.
— No Jumper (@nojumper) November 26, 2025
More than 700 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters as firefighters battled the blaze with heavy deployment of emergency vehicles and personnel. Thick plumes of smoke were seen billowing from multiple floors, and windows shattered from heat as the fire progressed.
One firefighter died during operations, and another was treated for heat exhaustion. Authorities said a significant number of those missing are elderly residents who may have struggled to escape.
At least 36 people have died and 279 people are unaccounted for, officials say. Residents remain trapped on higher floors of the buildings. https://t.co/iclSJYO8p1 pic.twitter.com/FtoFH3FyZ5
— CNN (@CNN) November 26, 2025
The affected residential complex consists of eight towers and houses nearly 4,800 people. Seven of the blocks were heavily damaged or engulfed at the height of the inferno.
Officials said the tragedy has triggered heightened concern over the widespread use of bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong, a practice that has drawn safety criticism for years. The incident has renewed calls for stricter building regulations and improved fire safety standards at construction sites.
Fire crews continued operations into the early hours as investigators examined structural damage and conducted search efforts. Authorities warned that the casualty figure may rise as more areas become accessible.
Tai Po, typically a quiet suburban community, has been left traumatized by the disaster. Local district teams and relief agencies are working to assist displaced families and provide emergency support to those affected.
