A major fire erupted on Thursday at the COP30 climate summit venue in Belém, Brazil, forcing thousands of delegates to evacuate as negotiations to finalise a climate deal were underway. At least 21 people were injured in the incident, with dramatic videos circulating widely on social media.
According to Reuters, 13 people were treated on-site for smoke inhalation.
The local fire department said the blaze was likely caused by faulty electrical equipment, possibly a microwave, and was brought under control within six minutes. Security staff quickly formed a human chain to guide delegates out of the building, preventing further panic.
What Happened
The fire broke out around 2 pm inside the “Blue Zone,” the high-security area that houses negotiation rooms, country pavilions, media centres and offices of top UN officials. As smoke spread rapidly, delegates rushed towards emergency exits.
Authorities immediately shut down the venue for a full safety inspection, reopening it more than six hours later at 8:40 pm — except for the pavilion section that suffered the brunt of the damage.
Injuries and Medical Response
Brazil’s Ministry of Health confirmed that 21 individuals received medical assistance — 19 for smoke inhalation and two for anxiety. No burn injuries were reported. Twelve patients have since been discharged, while the remaining continue to receive care.
Municipal, state and federal health teams are monitoring all affected individuals.
Top Leaders Evacuated Safely
UN Secretary-General António Guterres was inside the venue at the time and was promptly escorted out by UN security. India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and the Indian delegation were also safely evacuated.
UNFCCC Update
In a message to participants, the UNFCCC confirmed that Brazilian authorities had declared the venue safe after inspections and restored full operational status. All accredited delegates can now access the COP30 site, except the pavilion area, which will stay closed for the rest of the summit.
Although Thursday’s plenary sessions were cancelled, Friday’s meetings will proceed as scheduled and remain open to all parties and observers.
Impact on Climate Negotiations
The temporary shutdown raised concerns about delays to the final climate agreement, with just one day left before the summit’s conclusion. However, the COP30 Presidency and UNFCCC assured delegates that all parties must return to the table with “solidarity and determination” to finish the remaining work.
Rapid Response Praised
The fire department and UN security reacted swiftly, containing the fire within minutes. UNDSS reports indicate the flames spread quickly due to decorative fabrics in the temporary structure, but responders used extinguishers to prevent escalation.
While the Blue Zone was temporarily closed, the Green Zone — hosting exhibitions and public activities — remained fully operational.
Heavy rain immediately after the fire added to the chaos as thousands of attendees stood outside waiting for updates.
Despite the setback, negotiations involving representatives from more than 190 countries are expected to continue as planned in Belém, where COP30 is being held from November 10 to 21.
