London Smog 1950s Basic

Reading Guide

Heavy fog was a common event in London. However, in December 1952 a combination of very cold conditions, stagnant air caused by a high-pressure weather system, ground-based temperature inversion, and coal burning emissions created an unprecedented and deadly smoke + fog (= smog) series of events.

The great smog of 1952 was lethal for thousands of people, in particular for the elderly, young children, and those with respiratory problems.

Some descriptions of the events can be found in this History Stories article.

Guide prepared by P. Zannetti (12/2020). For corrections or expansions please contact us.