Dead, 279 missing in Hong Kong fire

14 days ago

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44 people, including a firefighter, have died in a massive blaze in Hong Kong's Tai Po neighborhood.
279 people are still missing, and 45 of the hospitalized are in serious condition.
The fire spread rapidly through seven out of eight residential blocks undergoing renovations, sheathed in bamboo scaffolding and green mesh.
Authorities describe the fire's rapid spread as 'unusual,' with styrofoam material found in buildings.
The government has launched investigations, including criminal probes, to determine the cause of the fire.
Blazes in three buildings were controlled after nearly 10 hours, while four remain engulfed in flames.
Chief Executive John Lee called the fire a 'massive catastrophe' and is considering postponing the upcoming election.
900 people are seeking refuge in community halls, and electioneering activities have been suspended.
President Xi Jinping expressed condolences and called for efforts to minimize casualties and losses.
The fire started at 2.51pm, quickly escalating to a top-level No 5 alarm by 6.22pm.

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