Watch: A breathtaking sun halo is presently visible in the skies above Karachi. 4o

Meteorologists attribute this phenomenon to the presence of high-altitude cirrus clouds over the city. These clouds contain ice crystals that scatter sunlight, creating the halo effect observed.

What is a solar halo?

A solar halo, also known as a “22-degree halo,” is an optical phenomenon created by the refraction of sunlight through countless hexagonal ice crystals floating in the atmosphere. This halo appears as a ring around the sun or moon, with a radius of roughly 22 degrees.

How Does a solar halo form?

These halos are specifically formed by cirrus clouds, which are thin, wispy clouds located at altitudes above 20,000 feet. The ice crystals in these clouds act like prisms and mirrors, reflecting light in specific directions, and creating the halo effect.

Why does a solar halo appear?

A solar halo forms when sunlight is refracted by ice crystals in the atmosphere. This phenomenon can occasionally result in the halo splitting into various colors. The ice crystals function like prisms, bending and reflecting the light to create a ring around the sun.

Historically, solar halos were used to predict weather before modern meteorological instruments. The appearance of a halo often indicated impending rain within the next 24 hours.

What does a solar halo look like?

When viewed from the correct angle, a solar halo can resemble a rainbow. Sometimes, it appears as a simple white ring, but it often displays a spectrum of colours. This is the collective reflection of light by the multitude of ice crystals in the atmosphere.

The current solar halo visible in Karachi is a stunning natural optical phenomenon, mesmerizing residents and offering a unique chance to observe this atmospheric marvel.