Rainbow clouds: Rare phenomenon graces Northern Ireland skies

Image source, J R Photography

Image caption, Because of the height and temperature needed this cloud is also known as polar stratospheric cloud - here's one pictured over Warrenpoint, County Down
  • Author, Barra Best
  • Role, 成人快手 News NI weather presenter

Rare nacreous clouds have been photographed over Northern Ireland on Thursday morning.

Typically seen at high altitudes closer to the poles, they are a meteorological rarity in Irish skies.

Also known as 'mother of pearl' their occurrence requires specific conditions, namely extremely low temperatures in the upper atmosphere.

Forming in air around -80C, ice crystals reflect the sun, giving the cloud pearly colours.

Some lucky individuals captured the celestial spectacle, taking to social media platforms to showcase the event.

Image source, J R Photography

Image caption, They normally form between 12-19 miles (19-31km) high, far above our normal clouds, as seen here in Warrenpoint

Image source, J R Photography

Image caption, The rare formation is also known as mother of pearl

Image source, StephMT86

Image caption, The celestial delight was snapped in Newry

All photos subject to copyright.