The blaze erupted around 2 p.m. local time in one of the pavilions inside the summit compound, where more than 50,000 diplomats, climate negotiators, scientists and activists from over 190 countries had gathered. Local emergency authorities said initial assessments suggest the fire may have been triggered by a malfunctioning electronic appliance, possibly a microwave, though a formal investigation is underway.
Thick plumes of black smoke rose over the venue, visible several kilometres away, as attendees rushed out of the building. Videos from the scene showed confusion in the aisles as flames spread across a section of the structure.
Fire brigade teams and ambulances reached the site within minutes. In a joint statement, the COP30 Presidency and the UNFCCC said the fire was contained in roughly six minutes, preventing it from spreading to adjoining pavilions. “Emergency protocols were activated immediately, and the affected area was evacuated without delay,” the statement noted.
Police and civil defence officials cordoned off the complex as medics treated the injured. None of the reported injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Shortly after the evacuation, heavy rain swept across the city, leaving thousands of delegates waiting outside as authorities inspected the venue for structural and electrical damage. Summit organisers are expected to release an updated schedule once safety clearances are completed.
The incident comes as COP30 enters a crucial phase of negotiations on emissions targets, climate finance, and adaptation goals, raising concerns over potential delays in key sessions. Authorities have assured that the summit will resume once the site is declared fully secure.
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