In brief
The COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, faced a dramatic interruption when a fire broke out, leading to an evacuation and the treatment of 13 people for smoke inhalation. The cause of the fire is under investigation, with reports indicating rapid flames and panic among the attendees. The incident occurred during crucial negotiations aimed at tackling climate change, potentially delaying a deal that involves nearly 200 countries.
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, speaking to BBC News, described people screaming as the fire spread. I think I tripped and fell in the commotion, she said, noting that ambulance staff reported inhaling toxic fumes.
Emergency medicine specialist Kimberly Humphrey indicated that the injuries mainly involved smoke inhalation and one lung injury. People are pretty traumatized and shocked, she commented.
As the fire raged, UN security guards instructed attendees to evacuate swiftly, leading to chaos as large columns of smoke ascended through a burned hole in the conference center's roof.
Despite the rapid response, two ambulances continued to arrive more than 90 minutes later. The fire reportedly began in one of the summit's country pavilions, with many eyewitnesses suggesting electrical issues might be to blame.
Due to the urgency of the situation, hundreds were left waiting outside under dire conditions as authorities secured the venue. Delays in negotiations resulting from the fire left delegates seeking temporary shelter as they awaited news.
The UN announced that the local fire brigade is investigating the site further, while Brazilian authorities have temporarily taken control of the summit, affecting the participation of delegations and negotiations aimed at addressing climate change.
