The fire broke out in Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po district in the New Territories and was upgraded to a No 5 alarm at 6:22 pm on Wednesday. Four people are reported to have perished in the blaze, with more residents still trapped in their homes.     

The authorities said that, as of 6 pm — in addition to the four fatalities — three people were in critical condition, while one was in serious condition and another was in stable condition. Local media reported that one of the casualties was a firefighter. 

Nine people were taken to the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital for treatment. 

The last time Hong Kong recorded a No 5 alarm fire was in 2008, when four people were killed and 55 were injured at Cornwall Court in Mong Kok.

China Daily's Andy Chong took the photos on Wednesday.