The massive fire quickly spread along the bamboo scaffolding and set nearby buildings ablaze. An entire multi-building complex is now on fire, reports the South China Morning Post.
Police have received an alarm that several people are trapped in the burning apartment buildings, which contain a total of 2,000 homes.
The area has been cordoned off and more than 1,000 firefighters and police are involved in the extensive rescue operation. One of the dead is said to be a firefighter who participated early in the rescue effort, which is being made more difficult by the high temperatures.
The emergency services urge the public to stay indoors and to close doors and windows, and to avoid the area.
