Hong Kong Begins Official Mourning Period Following Deadly Blaze
Hong Kong has entered a period of official mourning after a catastrophic fire swept through a residential estate, claiming the lives of at least 128 people. The devastating blaze began on Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court, a housing complex located in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong's New Territories.
The Scene of Destruction
Aerial photographs taken on Friday, November 28, 2025, reveal the extensive damage to the residential buildings, with entire sections blackened by the intense flames. The images show the sobering aftermath of one of Hong Kong's deadliest fires in recent memory, with emergency crews continuing their work at the scene two days after the initial outbreak.
The fire started unexpectedly on Wednesday and rapidly spread through the residential estate, trapping numerous residents within their homes. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours as the scale of the tragedy became increasingly apparent.
Community Response and Investigation
Authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire and identify any factors that may have contributed to the high death toll. The Hong Kong government has declared an official mourning period as the city comes to terms with the staggering loss of life.
Emergency services remain deployed at Wang Fuk Court as search and recovery operations continue. The community has mobilized to support survivors and the families of victims, with temporary shelters and counseling services being established throughout the Tai Po district.
This tragedy represents one of the most severe building fires in Hong Kong's history and has prompted immediate calls for reviews of fire safety regulations in residential buildings across the territory.
