A breathtaking iridescent cloud over Bogor, Indonesia, has gone viral, showcasing a rare atmospheric phenomenon that has captivated viewers. Last week, residents in Jonggol witnessed these stunning rainbow clouds, which are not commonly seen.
Ida Pramuwardani from Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) stated, “The phenomenon seen in the video is a common occurrence in the atmosphere and is related to atmospheric optics.” This explanation highlights the scientific basis behind the captivating display.
Iridescent clouds occur when sunlight diffracts off ice crystals within clouds. The phenomenon requires specific atmospheric conditions to manifest. In this case, the presence of a pileus cap—a type of lenticular cloud—provided the consistent droplets necessary for the iridescence.
The colors of these clouds can shift rapidly, often appearing in hues of pink, green, and blue. They can vanish almost as quickly as they appear, making them a fleeting spectacle for those lucky enough to witness them.
This event has sparked curiosity among locals and has been confirmed as a natural occurrence by BMKG. Iridescent clouds have also been sighted in neighboring countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore in recent years.
However, it is essential to note that iridescent clouds can be confused with nacreous clouds and coronae due to their similar appearances. Observers should exercise caution when viewing these phenomena directly since they typically occur near where the sun appears.
Iridescent clouds have been documented for over a century; they were famously painted by Edward Wilson during his Antarctic expedition in 1911. The recent viral moment serves as a reminder of nature’s beauty and complexity.
