Talks at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil stopped on Thursday after a fire forced an evacuation in Belem. Delegates were working to finalize a deal to boost global climate action when flames broke out at an exhibition pavilion. Security footage showed the fire climbing the fabric walls and ceiling before teams put it out.
Thirteen people received treatment for smoke inhalation. The fire service said an electrical device, likely a microwave, caused the incident. Firefighters brought the situation under control within six minutes. Thousands of delegates left the building as security staff formed barriers and directed crowds out.
Negotiations will continue on Friday once safety checks finish. Despite the urgency, countries already missed a Wednesday deadline to agree on issues such as climate finance and reducing fossil fuel use. Brazil circulated a draft deal, but it did not include a roadmap to transition away from fossil fuels. It suggested tripling climate adaptation funding by 2030 but did not clarify whether governments, banks, or private funds would supply the money.
Deep divisions remain. Many countries support a clear plan to move away from fossil fuels, while major producers resist. Developing nations also demand firm financial commitments to protect vulnerable communities already impacted by extreme weather.
