The second black smoke emerged this Thursday from the Sistine Chapel, indicating that the cardinals have yet to reach a consensus to elect the successor of Pope Francis in the conclave that began on May 7.

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Cardinals Begin Day 2: Vatican Conclave Continues Search for Next Pope

Since May 7, cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel have been conducting the conclave to elect the new leader of the Catholic Church. This Thursday, the second black smoke appeared, signaling that no candidate has yet obtained the required majority to be elected pontiff.

The conclave is taking place under strict isolation measures to ensure the confidentiality of the process. Cardinals under the age of 80 are participating, totaling 133 this time after two electors were absent due to health reasons. Of these, 108 were appointed by Pope Francis. Up to four voting rounds are planned daily-two in the morning and two in the afternoon-until the two-thirds majority needed to elect the new pope is reached.

Black smoke billows from the chimney above the Sistine Chapel, meaning the 133 Cardinal electors have not yet chosen a new Pope. pic.twitter.com/H5U1AxIIky

— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) May 8, 2025

Meaning of the Black and White Smoke

After each voting round, ballots are burned in a special stove inside the Sistine Chapel. If no candidate reaches the required majority, a chemical is added to produce black smoke, known as the “black smoke.” When a cardinal is elected, the smoke turns white, signaling to the faithful and the world that the Church has a new pontiff.

The conclave can last several days, as has happened in previous occasions. If after 34 rounds no candidate achieves the majority, a final vote is held between the two cardinals with the most support. At that point, the elected candidate must formally accept the position and choose his papal name.

Meanwhile, thousands of faithful and international observers watch attentively from St. Peter’s Square and around the world, awaiting the white smoke that will announce the beginning of a new chapter in the Catholic Church.

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