Killer Fog Paralyzes London, Claims 12,000 Lives
In December 1952, London was engulfed in a thick fog that left more than 12,000 people dead. This deadly phenomenon, known as “the great fog,” lasted for five days, shrouding the British capital in darkness and causing chaos.
The fog, a result of a combination of smoke, carbon dioxide, and soot from factories, vehicles, and homes, was exacerbated by an anticyclone that had settled over Great Britain, causing a total absence of wind. This stagnant air quality, combined with plummeting temperatures, led to a lethal mix of pollutants that blanketed the city.
As Londoners struggled to navigate the streets in near-zero visibility, the death toll continued to rise. The lack of visibility made it difficult for emergency responders to reach those in need, further exacerbating the crisis.
The “killer fog” served as a wake-up call for the dangers of air pollution, prompting the British government to take action to improve air quality standards and reduce emissions. Today, the events of December 1952 serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of environmental negligence.