Rare and Mesmerizing Rainbow Clouds Illuminate Arctic and Northern Skies

Rare rainbow-colored clouds, known as polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs), have been observed in the skies over the Arctic for three consecutive days due to an unusual cold snap in the upper atmosphere. These iridescent clouds, also called nacreous clouds, were seen in parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, Alaska, and even Scotland. PSCs are formed by tiny ice crystals that refract sunlight, creating a rainbow-like effect. The recent appearance of PSCs may have been triggered by the current El Niño event or human-caused climate change. Experts predict a high chance of more PSC sightings in the Arctic in the coming months.