At least four people have died after a major fire tore through several apartment blocks in Hong Kong, authorities have confirmed.

The government said two other people are in a critical condition, while another victim is being treated in hospital and is now in a stable condition. One of those killed has been identified as a firefighter, according to the city’s fire service, which spoke to the BBC.

The blaze, which erupted earlier on Wednesday, rapidly spread through the high-rise buildings, fuelled in part by bamboo scaffolding that had been erected around the structures. Images from the scene show towering flames racing up the exterior scaffolding as thick smoke billowed across the district.

Local reports initially indicated that several residents were trapped inside the affected blocks. Emergency teams have not yet confirmed whether anyone remains inside the buildings, as search-and-rescue operations continue.

Firefighters battled for hours to bring the blaze under control, with dozens of engines and emergency crews deployed. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire.

The incident has prompted renewed concern over safety standards and evacuation procedures in densely populated urban areas, particularly in older apartment complexes undergoing renovation.

Officials say further updates will be provided as rescue efforts progress.