Woman suffers 40% burns in Hong Kong flat gas explosion

A woman was found with 40% body burns after a suspected gas leak triggered an explosion at a flat in Lam Bik House, Lam Tin Estate in Hong Kong. Police received reports at around 10:30am on Friday of a loud explosion from the flat. Firefighters arrived to find the blaze already extinguished but rescued a woman of unknown age with burns covering 40% of her body, including her face and both hands. She was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital and was conscious upon admission. The Fire Services Department deployed one jet and one breathing apparatus team to stand by. Residents on three floors above and below the affected unit were evacuated as a precaution.

Towngas (Hong Kong and China Gas Company) said it had sent staff to the estate to check for possible gas leaks in the vicinity. The incident highlights the dangers of gas leaks in high-density residential buildings, where explosions can cause severe injuries and widespread disruption. Authorities are investigating the cause of the leak, and no further casualties have been reported. The victim's condition remains under observation.