Thirteen people treated for smoke inhalation as fire halts negotiations in Belem
A large fire broke out at the Cop30 venue in Belem, Brazil, on Thursday, forcing the evacuation of several buildings and disrupting the UN climate talks at a critical stage. Thirteen people were treated for smoke inhalation, though officials said there were no serious injuries.
The blaze started in the pavilion area of the conference site, where countries and organisations display their climate projects. Videos from the scene showed huge flames and thick black smoke rising above the Blue Zone, as emergency crews rushed in to contain the fire. The local fire department said the cause is still under investigation but pointed to electrical equipment, possibly a microwave or faulty generator, as a likely trigger.
Organisers said firefighters and UN security teams acted quickly and brought the fire under control in about six minutes. Authorities later confirmed that the venue had been inspected and declared safe for operations to continue. However, the specific area affected will remain closed until the end of the summit.
The fire added pressure to an already tense moment at the global climate meeting. With only two scheduled days left, negotiators have yet to reach major agreements. Talks were already behind schedule, and the evacuation further reduced the limited time available for countries to settle key issues, including the phase-out of fossil fuels and financing to support climate action.
Witnesses described scenes of confusion and fear as people rushed out of the buildings. Several pavilions near the China stand, including many from African countries and youth groups, were damaged or affected by the flames. Some delegates expressed concern that the incident may reflect poorly on Brazil’s ability to host such a large international event.
Much of the venue had been built or repaired in the weeks leading up to the summit, with construction work still visible during early events. Workers were seen finishing structures and fixing installations even as global leaders delivered speeches.
Despite the disruption, organisers reopened the main negotiation hall later in the evening, allowing talks to resume. Delegates said they would try to make up for lost time, though many admitted that reaching a deal now requires even more urgency.
The summit brings together representatives from 190 countries who must agree on a global plan to limit climate damage and support vulnerable communities. With homes flooded, harvests lost and lives affected around the world, leaders have faced growing pressure to deliver results.
As negotiations continue, the fire stands as a stark reminder of the fragile conditions under which climate decisions are being made and how little time remains to act.
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