A devastating fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po district claimed 14 lives on Wednesday afternoon, November 26, 2025, according to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government. The blaze, which engulfed a densely populated residential area, prompted a No. 5 alarm response—the second-highest emergency level—as firefighters battled intense flames and smoke.
The HKSAR Fire Services Department received the initial alert at 2:51 p.m. local time. By 6:22 p.m., escalating conditions forced authorities to upgrade the emergency status. Over 150 firefighters and 35 fire engines remain deployed at the scene, with rescue operations continuing into the evening.
"This is one of the most severe fires we've faced this year," a department spokesperson stated, noting challenges posed by narrow streets and aging building structures. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Chief Executive John Lee expressed condolences to victims' families and confirmed immediate support measures for displaced residents. The incident has reignited public discussions about fire safety standards in Hong Kong's older urban districts.
