When you get closer the heat rises and you can feel it and the smoke is really heavy.
Witness Thomas Liu shared his experience at the site of a devastating fire that has swept through the eight blocks of the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. The tragedy has left at least 36 people dead, with many still missing.
It's a disaster, Liu remarked, having witnessed the removal of deceased victims while many residents anxiously reached out to loved ones via messages, desperate for news of their safety. Mui Siu-fung, a local councillor, highlighted that numerous messages were received from families worried about relatives who remained unaccounted for.
The inferno led to the evacuation of over a thousand residents from the estate and surrounding buildings. As firefighters battled the flames, they reported that controlling the blaze was a challenge due to its rapid spread, which many believe was exacerbated by bamboo scaffolding on buildings undergoing renovation.
A resident, Harry Cheung, who has lived in the complex for decades, described the chaos, recounting the loud noises before the fire engulfed the buildings. He expressed uncertainty about his future housing arrangements, highlighting distress among residents contemplating their next steps.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. Meanwhile, anger has emerged from the community over the speed and effectiveness of the emergency response. Grassroots movements are rallying to provide support for displaced families and victims of the fire.
As authorities work to address the situation, the community's resilience shows through acts of solidarity, with donations of blankets and food pouring in. The Hong Kong chief executive assured that the government would support affected residents in the aftermath of this tragic event.
Residents remain hopeful for swift support as they cope with the emotional toll and uncertainty following the catastrophic fire.
