Unraveling the Mystery Behind London's Foggy Reputation

In the 19th century, the pollution-induced fog phenomenon from coal combustion led to the deaths of thousands of Londoners, UK.

Unraveling the Mystery Behind London's Foggy Reputation

Throughout the 19th century to the early 20th century, London was renowned for its thick fog phenomenon, appearing in November. It was a result of air pollution rather than gentle drizzles or grey winter skies. In Charles Dickens' work, Bleak House, he described: “Smoke lowering down from chimney-pots, making a soft black drizzle, with flakes of soot in it as big as full-grown snowflakes.”

In the year 1800, the population of London was around one million. This number rapidly increased, reaching two million by 1830. With the development of canals, railways, the city became an economic center with industries such as paper, printing, chemicals, gas, and leather. Hundreds flocked to the city in search of work, leading to the growth of suburbs. During winter, houses burned coal fires, emitting sulfur into the air.

London's fog was primarily caused by the smoke and dust from coal fires and toxic emissions from factory chimneys. Combined with the moisture in the air during changing weather conditions, sulfur created layers of toxic gases, tinted with a pale yellow hue.

When Queen Victoria ascended to the throne in 1837, the fog hindered movement, whether on foot or horseback. A study in 1892 revealed that, between 1886-1890, London averaged 63 foggy days per year. On gloomy days, some mischievous children carried makeshift torches, guiding gentlemen and ladies through dark alleys and charging a fee, even resorting to robbery.

Sneaking through the cracks of window frames, dust left greasy streaks on furniture and clothes. Polluted air invaded the throats and lungs of the populace, prompting drivers to constantly spit and rinse with strong liquor. Trees stood bare and withered as London's fog enveloped every leaf.

The peak came in December 1952, with sudden cold gripping England. Families resorted to coal fires, causing sulfur particles and soot to linger in the air, mingling with fog, descending to the ground. Visibility in London seemed nonexistent. Schools and businesses shut down, transportation halted, and even the city's inhabitants couldn't see their own feet. The severe air pollution phenomenon became known as the Great Smog, claiming thousands of lives across the city.

Following the thick, harmful smog, most London families switched to natural gas and cleaner fuels. By 1956, the Clean Air Act mandated industries, households, and commerce to address emissions, banning the use of coal as a fuel. However, the law took several years to take effect. By December 1962, another dense smog episode occurred, resulting in the deaths of 750 people.

Today, the city no longer experiences pale yellow clouds and the smell of rotten eggs. With its rich history, culture, and diverse cuisine, London stands as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

According to Lan Huong/Vnexpress

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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour