A fierce hill fire erupted at Tai Po Hill on December 28, 2024, forcing local authorities to spring to action as flames engulfed the rugged terrain. Starting around 3 PM, the fire quickly spread, driven by strong winds and dry conditions, creating two substantial "fire dragons" measuring 50 meters and 200 meters respectively.
Eyewitness accounts describe the scene as one of devastation, with thick smoke billowing high above the hillside, visible for miles. The fire proved relentless, continuing to rage well past sundown and presenting considerable challenges for firefighting teams on the ground.
According to reports, the Hong Kong Fire Services Department received multiple emergency calls alerting them to the situation. Firefighters arrived to find flames leaping up the mountain from the South Point near Nam Hang Pai, and they quickly initiated efforts to contain the blaze.
Images shared on social media revealed the extent of the flames, with bright orange tongues of fire lighting up the mountainside. Local authorities deployed the government flying service’s helicopter to assist with aerial firefighting efforts by dropping water bombs on the flames, reinforcing the ground efforts of firefighters struggling with the challenging conditions.
By evening, firefighters had successfully reduced the size of the fire to still-dangerous proportions, measuring approximately 50 meters and 100 meters long, but reported no casualties. Local officials, including the Yuen Long District Councillor Leung Ming-kin, provided updates via social media, assuring residents of their safety and the continuous efforts being made by the firefighting teams.
"We have been closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they come," Leung stated. “I want to thank the firefighters for their relentless work, and we appreciate the full support from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.”
Despite the progress, the fire was still active late at night, forcing authorities to issue repeated warnings urging residents to evacuate the vicinity. They emphasized the importance of safety as smoke drifted through communities, causing air quality concerns. Residents were advised to close their windows to avoid the impact of drifting smoke and to remain indoors until advised otherwise.
Authorities also called on hikers and campers within the surrounding areas to remain calm and evacuate the areas of risk as the firefighting response continued. The unpredictability of the fire spread raised alarms about potential risks to nearby residential neighborhoods.
"The conditions are ripe for such fires, and we urge everyone to be vigilant and adhere to safety protocols," said one official. "It’s disheartening to see how quickly fire can engulf the area, and we must work together to prevent such incidents from affecting our community.”
Given the scale of the operation needed to battle the flames, the Fire Services Department utilized specialized equipment, including fire engines and handheld tools, alongside organized teams trained for mountainous firefighting. Efforts were also bolstered by the deployment of community volunteers and local organizations offering assistance to those impacted by the fire.
Concern continues to grow among local residents, many of whom watched from afar as the fire blazed, fearing for their homes' safety. Emergency services maintained communication with neighborhood leaders to keep the public informed about developments and safety measures.
This incident has also highlighted the heightened risk of hill fires during the winter season when dry conditions can exacerbate such situations. Local officials emphasized the importance of preventive measures and community awareness to mitigate future occurrences.
Looking forward, residents are urged to remain alert to the updates from emergency services as containment efforts persist. Meanwhile, the larger community engages with firefighting efforts, reflecting the spirit of cooperation and resilience necessary during such challenging times.
While the fire was significantly contained overnight, the situation continued to be monitored, with firefighters prepared for sustainable efforts until it could be fully extinguished. Local authorities reassured the public of their commitment to safety and rapid response should conditions change.
