Massive Fire at UN COP30 Summit in Brazil; 21 Injured, Thousands Evacuated as Microwave Spark Suspected
A major fire at the COP30 climate summit’s Blue Zone in Belem, Brazil, injured 21 people and forced thousands to evacuate. Authorities say a microwave likely triggered the blaze, which was brought under control in six minutes.
Thick black smoke rises from the Blue Zone at the COP30 Climate Summit in Belem, Brazil, prompting mass evacuation of delegates.
COP30 Fire: Thousands Evacuated After Blaze Erupts in Blue Zone
In Belem, Brazil, a huge inferno broke out inside the venue of the UN COP30 Climate Summit, forcing thousands of delegates to evacuate and suspending talks at a crucial juncture in the global climate wars. Most suffered smoke inhalation. On Friday, Brazilian health authorities attested to the fact that a minimum of 21 people were given medical treatment.
The fire broke out around 2 pm in the Blue Area, a highly secured environment for international negotiators. There, the most enthralling plenary hall, media center, and offices for the topmost dignitaries are situated.
According to local firefighters, the main suspect appears to be an electrical appliance, possibly a microwave, with the entire incident brought under control within six minutes after their men hit the scene. The quick spread of flames was magnified by the presence of decorative cloths covering certain parts of the structure.
Security personnel immediately deployed fire extinguishers before firefighters arrived.
Huge plumes of black smoke were seen rising from the venue, with visuals quickly circulating on social media.
21 Injured; No Burn Injuries Reported
In a statement, Brazil’s Ministry of Health confirmed that 21 people received medical assistance, including:
19 cases of smoke inhalation
2 cases of anxiety attacks
None of the injured suffered burns. Twelve people were discharged soon after treatment, while the remaining continue to receive care in Belem.
Municipal, state and federal health teams are monitoring all affected individuals.
UN Chief, Indian Delegation Evacuated Safely
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was present at the venue when the fire broke out and was swiftly evacuated by UN security personnel.
India’s Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and other members of the Indian delegation were also inside the Blue Zone but exited safely, the environment ministry confirmed.
Venue Closed for Six Hours; Blue Zone Reopens
Authorities shut down the entire COP30 venue for a comprehensive safety inspection. The Blue Zone was reopened at 8:40 pm, but Zone B (country pavilions)—the area damaged by the fire—will remain closed for the rest of the conference.
The UNFCCC informed delegates that the venue is now “fully safe” and has received all necessary clearances from Brazilian authorities.
However, the temporary suspension of Thursday’s negotiations raised concerns about potential delays in finalising the summit’s climate roadmap.
Negotiations to Resume; Plenary to Be Livestreamed
In a joint statement, the COP30 Presidency and UNFCCC said:
“We still have substantial work ahead, and we trust that delegates will return in a spirit of solidarity and determination to ensure a successful outcome.”
Friday’s plenary sessions will resume as usual and will be open to all observers, with live streaming available for transparency.
The Green Zone, where exhibitions and public activities are held, remained unaffected and continues to operate normally.
Heavy Rain Adds to Chaos
Minutes after the evacuation, heavy rain lashed the area, creating additional difficulties for thousands who were forced outdoors amid the emergency.
More than 190 countries are participating in COP30, being held in Belem from November 10 to 21.
