Shenzhen, China. 26 November 2025 (dpa/MIA) - At least 13 people have died in a major fire in a high-rise residential area in Hong Kong, authorities said on Wednesday.

Fifteen others were reported injured, according to multiple media outlets.

Authorities have classified the fire, which broke out in the afternoon in the Wang Fuk Court residential complex in the Tai Po district, as a level 5 emergency, the highest alert level.

A firefighter was among the dead. The Hong Kong government confirmed that the 37-year-old was found unconscious at the scene and was taken to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

Flames engulfed seven apartment blocks in the complex, leaving residents trapped in their residences.

The area comprises eight high-rise buildings, each with 32 floors and a total of almost 2,000 flats.

According to reports, the buildings were all enclosed in bamboo scaffolding for renovation work.

Photos and videos from the scene showed large clouds of smoke rising from the tower blocks.

The South China Morning Post newspaper said more than 760 firefighters and 400 police officers were deployed, while more than 700 people sought shelter in emergency accommodation.

Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong is governed as one of China's two special administrative regions, along with Macau.

Photo: epa