Fireworks Reduce Visibility: Atmospheric Particles Cause Sharp Reduction In Visibility

While fireworks and bonfires can be a whole lot of fun, they significantly reduce visibility, as high as 25 percent, according to a study at the University of Birmingham, in the UK.

"Unfortunately, these events can affect short term air quality and lead to significant reductions in visibility. We hope that our work will lead to improved forecasting of visibility degradation," said Dr. Francis Pope, lead author of the study, in a news release.

Fireworks and bonfires are no stranger to peoples of all cultures. In the UK, Guy Fawkes' night reduces visibility to a great extent. Each year on Nov. 5, the British celebrate the anniversary of the discovery of Catholic conspirators plotting to blow up the Houses of Parliament in London in 1605. Thus, each year people light bonfires and set off fireworks.  

The researchers found that there is sharp reduction in visibility due to fireworks and bonfires on Guy Fawkes' night. Visibility was further reduced when there was high humidity.

After analyzing data from 2000-2012, from 34 meteorological stations in the UK, the researchers found that there was an average of 25 percent reduction in visibility as a result of fireworks and bonfires. When there was high humidity, the researchers found visibility reductions of 64 percent in Nottingham. Humidity and water present in the atmosphere alter the size and composition of the particles, according to the researchers.

Pedestrian and motorist safety is the researchers' main concern, especially when there are high levels of humidity. Visibility reductions can last up to two days after fireworks and bonfires events, according to the researchers.   

"If forecasts suggest that planned displays will coincide with conditions likely to exacerbate poor visibility then organizers and local authorities should be prepared to issue poor visibility warnings in advance. This precautionary measure could prevent unnecessary accidents," said Pope. 

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