Belém, Brazil – Video recorded by x user Catherine Ellis on November 20, 2025, inside the pavilion area of the COP30 climate summit captures the scene moments after a fire broke out in the national pavilions section of the Blue Zone.

Flames and thick black smoke rise from the ceiling of a temporary structure near the Italy pavilion, marked with the “ITALY COP30” sign and Italian flag colors. Bright orange fire burns through the fabric and ceiling material as debris falls into the corridor-like space.

Delegates, staff, and security officers in light blue uniforms run toward the exits in visible panic. Some turn back toward the fire while overturned furniture, including a flat-screen TV lying face-down, and scattered items fill the foreground.

Alarms, shouting, and crowd noise echo through the enclosed area as evacuation begins. The handheld footage shakes as the camera pans, revealing smoke and flames spreading rapidly through the temporary structures.

The fire originated in or near the Africa pavilion section and moved quickly through the tent-like buildings. The incident triggered a full evacuation of the venue and briefly interrupted negotiations before the blaze was contained within minutes. Only minor smoke inhalation cases were reported, and talks later resumed.

The thumbnail provided corresponds to a moment shortly after the flames were extinguished in that area, showing lingering smoke, visible damage, and people continuing to evacuate.

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