A major fire broke out in a housing estate in Hong Kong on Wednesday afternoon with a least two persons reported seriously injured.

The blaze broke out at 2:51 pm at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po district in the New Territories and was upgraded to the No. 4 alarm at 3:34 pm, the Fire Services Department said.

Local media reported a man and a woman suffering severe burns and some residents unable to leave their homes. Videos taken at the scene showed bamboo scaffolding burning and plumes of smoke coming from at least two buildings. 

“Residents nearby are advised to stay indoors, close their doors and windows, and stay calm. Members of the public are also advised to avoid going to the area affected by the fire,” the fire department said.   

Wang Fuk Court is a housing complex made up of eight blocks, providing close to 2,000 residential units. Several towers around the blazing tower have bamboo scaffolding on their exterior.

With Reuters inputs