Chasing Rainbow Clouds: A Guide to Spotting and Photographing Them
There’s something beyond magical about the sky, but few sights can compare to the enchanting beauty of rainbow clouds. These ethereal formations, also known as iridescent clouds, are like nature’s confetti, offering fleeting glimpses of vibrant colours woven into the fabric of the sky. Unlike rainbows, which appear after the rain, these luminous wonders emerge unexpectedly, painting pastel hues across the clouds like a watercolour masterpiece. If you’re keen to chase these gorgeous phenomena, grab your camera and let’s embark on a whimsical adventure to discover how to spot, capture, and appreciate these extraordinary clouds! And if you’re a lover of celestial spectacles, you might also enjoy the captivating glow of the northern lights - another breathtaking natural phenomenon.
What are Rainbow Clouds?
Rainbow clouds - also known as ‘nacreous’ or ‘mother-of-pearl’ clouds - are a spectacular display in the atmosphere, formed by the diffraction of sunlight through small water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air. This process creates a kaleidoscope of colours—typically more pastel than the bold hues of a rainbow—that dance across the cloud's surface. Known scientifically as ‘polar stratospheric clouds’, they often appear as delicate wisps or layers, showcasing an array of blues, pinks, greens, and purples.
Why Do They Occur?
These enchanting formations occur under specific conditions—primarily when the sun is high in the sky and the atmosphere contains tiny, uniformly sized water droplets or ice crystals. As sunlight diffracts through these microscopic particles, it scatters in a way that produces an iridescent glow, much like light passing through a soap bubble.
A particularly stunning form of these clouds is the nacreous cloud (also known as polar stratospheric clouds). Unlike standard iridescent clouds, nacreous clouds form in the stratosphere at altitudes of around 15-25 kilometres, far higher than typical clouds. They require extreme cold—temperatures below -78°C—to develop, meaning they are most often seen in polar regions during winter. Due to their high altitude, they are illuminated by sunlight from below the horizon, glowing brilliantly well before dawn and after sunset. The result? A dazzling display of shimmering pinks, greens, and purples against the twilight sky.
How Rare Are They?
While rainbow clouds can be spotted around the world, they are quite rare compared to regular rainbows. Their unpredictable nature makes them an exciting challenge to find, leading many to consider them a beautiful reward for those willing to chase the perfect sky. Keep your eyes peeled, as they are most likely to occur during late afternoons, especially in the spring and summer months.
How to Find Them
The key step in your rainbow cloud quest is knowing when and where to look. Here are a few tips to increase your chances of witnessing them:
Timing is Everything: The prime time for spotting rainbow clouds is typically late afternoons when sunlight interacts with moisture in the atmosphere.
Location Matters: Look towards the sun, especially if it’s partially obscured. You might find rainbow clouds on the fringes where the sunlight breaks through.
Post-Storm Euphoria: After a rain shower, keep your eyes peeled. The leftover moisture in the air can create the perfect environment for those rainbow hues.
Elevated Spots: Consider heading to areas with higher vantage points, like hilltops or cliffs. This allows for an expansive view of the sky and increases your chances of serendipitous sightings.
How to Capture the Perfect Shot
Capturing the splendour of rainbow clouds can be quite the challenge - but definitely worth it. Here are a few tips to help you seize that perfect shot:
Use a Polarising Filter: This handy tool helps reduce glare and enhance colour saturation, making those rainbow hues pop in your photos.
Adjust Your Settings: Shooting in manual mode can be beneficial. Set a wider aperture (f/8 or lower) for more depth of field, and don’t hesitate to increase your ISO if the light is low.
Experiment with Angles: Try different perspectives to capture the cloud formations. Sometimes a low angle can enhance the drama of the clouds against the sky.
Patience is Key: Nature is unpredictable. Be prepared to wait for the right moment, as conditions can change rapidly.
Rainbow Clouds Bucket List
If the allure of rainbow clouds has you daydreaming, it’s time to plan an adventure! These locations are not only known for their frequent rainbow cloud sightings but also offer stunning landscapes that make the chase even more memorable.
Norway
With its crisp air and beautiful fjords, Norway provides the perfect backdrop for spotting rainbow clouds. The late afternoon skies, especially during spring and summer, often serve up the ideal combination of sunlight and moisture. Consider tying in a hiking trip to explore Norway’s breathtaking natural beauty—check out Gutsy Girls’ Norway Adventures for inspiration.
Iceland
A land of endless skies and dramatic weather patterns, Iceland is a haven for those chasing rainbow clouds. Whether you’re hiking near waterfalls or relaxing in the geothermal pools, keep an eye on the horizon for those magical pastel hues. Iceland’s raw, untouched landscapes make every sighting even more unforgettable. Join a Gutsy Girls trip to Iceland for a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Scotland’s Isle of Skye
Known for its rugged, otherworldly scenery, the Isle of Skye offers prime conditions for rainbow clouds. The ever-changing weather combined with its dramatic vistas creates a picture-perfect setting for chasing iridescent skies.
The Lake District, England
This beloved hiking destination is not just about lush greenery and serene lakes—it’s also a great place to spot rainbow clouds. After a light drizzle, look upwards for nature’s pastel show while wandering its trails.
Snowdonia National Park, Wales
Home to soaring peaks and moody skies, Snowdonia’s unpredictable weather makes it a hotspot for rainbow cloud enthusiasts. Add a challenging hike to the mix, and you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.
Hot Tip: When and Where to See Them
While iridescent clouds can appear in many parts of the world, the most spectacular versions—nacreous clouds—are best spotted in winter. If you’re keen to witness this rare sky magic, head to higher latitudes such as Scandinavia, Iceland, or northern Canada. The best time to see them is when the sun is between 1° and 6° below the horizon—just before dawn or just after sunset—when they catch the sunlight from below and shine with an otherworldly glow.
Ready to turn those dreamy skies into your next adventure? Visit Gutsy Girls for inspiration. Because sometimes, the best treasures are found when you’re chasing rainbows.