A devastating fire has ripped through several high-rise tower blocks in Hong Kong, killing at least 13 people and injuring 15 more. There are reports of missing people, and thousands have been evacuated to nearby shelters.
Pictures show several buildings ablaze, and thick smoke billowing into the air, dominating Hong Kong's skyline. As night fell, the fire was still burning hours after it was first reported, with 767 firefighters deployed to the scene.
What caused the blaze is still unclear, but here is what we do know, so far.
Where and when did the fire start?
The blaze broke out at Wang Fuk Court, a large housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, at 14:51 local time on Wednesday (06:51 GMT). Wang Fuk Court consists of eight tower blocks, which are each 31-storeys high. Seven of them have been affected by the fire, Tai Po District Councillor Mui Siu-fung told BBC Chinese.
Built in 1983 and currently undergoing renovations, the towers were covered in bamboo scaffolding which is believed to have facilitated the fire's rapid spread. Residents reported that fire alarms did not sound properly.
How serious is the fire?
The Hong Kong fire department has classified the blaze as a level five alarm - the highest in severity. Local media reported explosions heard within the building with hose access hindered by heat.
Capturing attention, Deputy Director of Fire Services stated that the ferocity of the flames made it difficult for firefighters to enter and conduct rescue operations, while debris from the buildings posed additional risks. It is difficult to know when the fire will be fully extinguished, he remarked, echoing concerns from residents.
What do we know about the victims?
The death toll has increased, with 13 confirmed deaths, including a firefighter who collapsed on scene and was declared dead shortly after in the hospital. Many residents remain unaccounted for, triggering fears that the death toll may rise.
Emergency hotline and shelters set up
In response to the tragedy, emergency shelters have been established for those displaced. Local authorities report that the majority of residents in the immediate area have been evacuated.
Hong Kong and bamboo scaffolding
Bamboo scaffolding is a traditional building practice in Hong Kong, but safety concerns have led the government to consider phasing it out. The intricate nature and combustibility of bamboo might have heightened the fire's spread, leading to dire consequences.
The cause of this fire is still under investigation.
