In brief
The UN climate conference COP30 was abruptly evacuated following a fire outbreak at the venue in Belém, Brazil. The blaze, contained in just six minutes, led to 13 individuals receiving medical attention for smoke inhalation. With negotiations in critical stages to address climate action, the incident has raised concerns about further delays. Attendees reported scenes of chaos, while authorities are assessing the venue's safety amid ongoing talks among nearly 200 delegations from around the world.
The UN climate talks COP30 have been evacuated due to a fire breaking out inside the venue in Belém, Brazil.
BBC journalists saw flames and smoke in the pavilion area before they were rushed outside where fire engines raced past.
The UN said the fire was extinguished after six minutes and 13 people were treated for smoke inhalation. It is not yet known what caused the blaze.
The talks were in the final hours of trying to agree on next steps to tackle climate change but the fire has disrupted negotiations and the talks remain closed.
Dr Harshita Umesh, a witness at the scene, described the chaos: It was climbing the walls and onto the ceiling. People were screaming, she told BBC News. Emergency medical responders reported that many injuries were related to smoke inhalation.
While the cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, eyewitness accounts suggest it may have originated from electrical issues. People were left outside in high temperatures and humidity while waiting for the situation to stabilize.
The UN has stated that Brazilian authorities are taking over the management of the summit at this time.
