Black smoke rises from Sistine Chapel, signaling no pope elected in first ballot

Black smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday night, indicating that the first round of voting in the papal conclave has not produced a new pope.

The signal, broadcast live to waiting crowds in St. Peter’s Square, means that the cardinal-electors have not reached the required two-thirds majority to select a new head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Per tradition, the cardinals will remain sequestered and cut off from all outside communication until a decision is reached. Voting will resume on Thursday, with up to four rounds of ballots possible each day until consensus is achieved.

The conclave follows the death of Pope Francis, and global attention remains fixed on the Vatican as the Church prepares to announce its 266th pontiff. Until white smoke appears—signifying a successful election—Catholics worldwide will continue to wait in prayer and anticipation.

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