A devastating fire broke out on Wednesday in the Wang Fuk Court residential estate in Tai Po, Hong Kong, claiming the lives of at least 13 people and injuring 15 others. The blaze, which began on bamboo scaffolding surrounding several high-rise apartment blocks, quickly spread, engulfing multiple buildings and sending thick plumes of smoke and flames into the sky. Witnesses reported hearing loud cracking sounds, likely from the burning bamboo, as the fire raged uncontrollably. By nightfall, the flames cast an eerie orange glow over the area, with firefighters struggling to contain the inferno. Authorities declared a five-alarm fire, the highest emergency level, as the situation worsened. Reports indicated that some residents were trapped inside the buildings, though rescue efforts were hampered by the intensity of the blaze. A 37-year-old firefighter lost his life while battling the flames, succumbing to severe burns. The government established temporary shelters for displaced residents and urged the public to avoid the area. This tragic incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in Hong Kong, particularly regarding the use of bamboo scaffolding, which has been linked to similar fires in recent months. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the event underscores the challenges of ensuring safety in one of the world’s most densely populated cities.