Fire Forces Evacuation at COP30 Climate Summit in brazil
belém, Brazil - November 20, 2025 – A fire triggered the evacuation of the COP30 U.N. Climate Summit venue in Belém, Brazil, Thursday afternoon, sending attendees scrambling to safety. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blaze, which produced visible black smoke and prompted a swift response from security personnel. No injuries have been reported.
The incident occurred during the ongoing climate negotiations, a critical gathering of world leaders, scientists, and activists aimed at accelerating action to combat climate change. The summit, hosted by Brazil, is intended to build upon commitments made in the Paris Agreement and chart a course for deeper emissions reductions.The disruption raises concerns about logistical challenges and potential impacts on the progress of the talks, which are already facing pressure to deliver concrete outcomes.
Gabi Andrade, a COP30 volunteer from Belém who has been working on accreditations for the past three weeks, recounted the scene. She described having just finished her lunch break and exploring the Singapore pavilion when the fire broke out. “I saw black smoke,” Andrade said. “A security guard grabbed my hand and showed me to the exit as I cried and screamed ‘fire.'”
The evacuation unfolded quickly, with security directing attendees away from the building. Andrade expressed dismay over the incident, fearing repercussions for Brazil’s reputation as host. “It’s so sad for us,” she stated.”We all worked so hard.”
The fire’s cause remains unknown as investigations continue. Organizers have not yet announced a timeline for resuming activities at the venue. The incident underscores the complexities of hosting a large-scale international event and the potential for unforeseen disruptions to crucial global negotiations.
