Overview

• Flames erupted Saturday afternoon on external scaffolding at the Central business district tower, sending thick black smoke visible across Victoria Harbour.
• Firefighters mounted a multi-angle response using two water jets, two breathing-apparatus teams and aerial ladder platforms, with ambulances positioned nearby.
• Police said 49 men and seven women evacuated the building as cordons disrupted Connaught Road Central and Des Voeux Road Central, with some tram services suspended.
• Four people were taken to Queen Mary Hospital, including one rescued from a lift, and officials reported no fatalities with those hospitalised described as stable by evening.
• By early evening crews had the blaze largely under control as authorities probed whether scaffolding materials or maintenance work contributed to the rapid spread.