Overview

• The Vatican has installed two stoves and a temporary chimney in the Sistine Chapel to prepare for the fumata, the smoke signal tradition during papal conclaves.
• Black smoke will indicate no decision has been reached, while white smoke will announce the successful election of a new pope.
• Since 2013, chemical mixtures have replaced natural materials to ensure precise and visible smoke colors for both black and white fumatas.
• The traditional stove, used since 1939 to burn ballots, is now supplemented by an auxiliary electronic stove for enhanced smoke visibility.
• The College of Cardinals is set to convene following Pope Francis's death, with the protodiacon to proclaim “Habemus Papam” once a new pontiff is chosen.