The number of victims of the fire in several skyscrapers in Hong Kong is now 94, world agencies reported. The injured are about 80, including several firefighters.
Firefighters are still working on the ground this morning. The search and rescue operations are expected to end later today.
The fire broke out three days ago in the Tai Po district, with flames engulfing 7 skyscrapers with over 30 floors.
This is the most devastating fire in Hong Kong in decades.
Bamboo scaffolding erected around the high-rise residential buildings due to renovations that were underway contributed to the rapid spread of the flames. In addition, authorities say some of the materials used in the buildings may not have met fire safety regulations.
Three people from a construction company have been detained on suspicion of causing death.
Hong Kong authorities have said they will accelerate the transition from using bamboo scaffolding for construction or renovation work to using metal scaffolding. Bamboo scaffolding dates back 1,000 years.
According to officials, the fire started in an outdoor bamboo scaffolding around a 32-story building in Tai Po and spread inside the building and then to the other six buildings. Windy weather likely contributed to the spread.
Bamboo is easy to transport, assemble as scaffolding and dismantle. Since 2018, 23 people have died in incidents involving bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong.