At least 13 people have died in a massive fire engulfing several apartment blocks in Hong Kong, according to the BBC. Government sources have said a further three people are in critical condition, and another is reported to be in serious condition. More than 700 firefighters are at the scene.
The blaze, which has been classified as a level-five incident, Hong Kong’s most severe rating, continues to burn, and reports suggest some residents may still be trapped, though authorities have not confirmed this.
Indeed, fires have been a destructive force throughout history, affecting civilizations from Ancient Rome to present-day California. To learn about the deadliest fires in human history, click through this gallery.