Fire Disrupts Climate Conference in Belém, Site Reopens After Evacuation

A fire temporarily disrupted proceedings at the ongoing world climate conference in Belém, Brazil, causing a full evacuation of the conference site. The incident occurred during the final phase of crucial negotiations, prompting the swift evacuation of all participants from the venue on Thursday afternoon local time.

Emergency services responded rapidly, and officials reopened the main conference area later in the evening after a thorough safety inspection. While the core area where negotiations take place is now accessible, the section directly affected by the fire remains closed until the end of the conference for further assessment and repairs. Official sessions for the day were canceled, with negotiations set to resume the following day.

According to conference organizers, there were no injuries among international delegations, including attendees from Austria and the European Union. The prompt intervention by security personnel and firefighters ensured the safety of all delegates, with no significant incidents of panic reported among those present.

Medical teams treated a total of 21 individuals as a result of the fire. Of these, 19 were evaluated for smoke inhalation while two others were treated for anxiety-related symptoms. All affected individuals remained under medical observation, with no reports of severe health issues.

Eyewitness accounts and video footage from the scene showed flames and smoke emanating from a pavilion within the conference's extensive tent complex, which hosts thousands of participants. Emergency instructions in multiple languages facilitated an orderly evacuation. Outside, attendees waited in the rain or sought shelter in nearby cafes and public spaces, maintaining calm throughout the disruption.

Authorities stated that the damage caused by the fire was limited, with the blaze reportedly brought under control within six minutes. The United Nations, which oversees the conference, confirmed that the event's strict safety protocols helped minimize the impact. Police, military, and medical personnel remained present on-site to ensure order and safety for all participants.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Brazilian officials reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining security and have temporarily assumed direct oversight of the conference grounds, which are usually under United Nations jurisdiction during the event.

This incident adds to a series of unexpected events at this year's climate summit, which has also seen demonstrations by indigenous groups and logistical challenges due to tropical weather conditions affecting the temporary structures. Despite these obstacles, organizers and national representatives remain focused on advancing critical discussions aimed at reducing global dependence on coal, oil, and gas. Delegates are working toward a consensus on concrete steps for a global transition away from fossil fuels, though negotiations remain complex and require unanimous agreement.

The conference is scheduled to conclude after two weeks of discussions, though extensions remain possible if consensus is not achieved. Brazilian authorities have reiterated their intention to adhere to the planned timetable, emphasizing the urgency of achieving tangible outcomes in the global effort to address climate change.