Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Fire Halts COP30 Talks in Belém as Venue Evacuated for Safety Checks

A contained pavilion blaze triggered a full evacuation, delaying the ministerial endgame.

Overview

  • The fire erupted around 2 p.m. local time in the pavilion area, sending thousands outside as smoke filled corridors before crews contained the blaze within minutes.
  • Brazilian fire officials ordered a full-site evacuation and inspections, and by roughly 8:40 p.m. local time authorities reinstated the negotiations area and resumed operations.
  • Organisers reported 13 people treated on site for smoke inhalation with no serious injuries, with medical monitoring provided.
  • The cause remains under investigation, with firefighters and officials pointing to a likely electrical fault such as a microwave or short circuit.
  • The disruption hit the final push on a fossil-fuel transition roadmap, climate finance and trade issues after a missed Wednesday deadline, making overtime talks increasingly likely.