Residents waited anxiously for updates on their loved ones at a temporary shelter on Thursday after a high-rise fire swept through a 2,000-unit complex in Hong Kong, marking one of the city’s deadliest fires in decades. The blaze, which began on Wednesday afternoon, has so far claimed at least 44 lives, with authorities reporting that hundreds more remain unaccounted for.
Thick smoke continued to rise from the damaged buildings early Thursday. Witnesses reported hearing bamboo scaffolding burn and explode as flames spread rapidly across several structures.
“I truly think it’s very scary. I watched it spread from one building to three, then four. It’s really terrifying,” said 25-year-old resident Veezy Chan.
Since the shelter opened on Wednesday evening, distraught residents have continued to arrive to report missing family members. Some sat motionless, their eyes red as they stared at phones hoping for news, while social workers distributed blankets and pillows to help the elderly cope with the cold night.
“It’s terribly sad. Imagine a home—gone, burnt. Anyone would be heartbroken,” said local resident Shirley Chan. “I can relate to that; it’s truly heartbreaking. A home, gone in flames.”
A 65-year-old resident, identified only as Yuen, said many elderly people in the area rely on mobility aids, making evacuation difficult. He added that ongoing maintenance works at the complex led many residents to keep their windows shut, preventing them from hearing the fire alarm.
“There is loss of property and loss of life, and even a firefighter has died,” he said.
Some citizens have begun donating supplies to shelters voluntarily as the rescue efforts continue.
“My heart is tingling,” said volunteer Logan Yeung, 29, who vowed to remain on-site until operations conclude. He suggested construction issues may have contributed to the disaster.
While historically common in densely populated areas, major fires in Hong Kong have become less frequent due to improved safety regulations. However, nearby residents said they were unprepared for the flames to spread so quickly overnight.
“I watched the fire burn and couldn’t do anything,” Chan said. “We also didn’t know what anyone could do.”
City leader John Lee announced on Thursday that a task force will investigate the incident and submit findings to the coroner.
“The government needs to provide an explanation to the public,” Chan added.
