JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Weather watchers across the First Coast captured another round of sundogs Saturday evening and shared them to First Coast News.
Sundogs, also known as iridescent clouds, are optical phenomena that result from the refraction, dispersion and reflection of sunlight by ice crystals in the atmosphere. Plus, the upper-level clouds need to be relatively thin or just forming, keeping them transparent enough to allow the scattering of light through them, instead of blocking the sun rays completely out. They typically appear as two bright spots of light on either side of the sun and can give an appearance of a rainbow on the base of cirrus clouds.
Sundogs are not only an atmospheric phenomena but, also a source of inspiration for photographers and 'skywatchers.'
How do you spot sundogs?
Sundogs are not an everyday occurrence, but with some awareness and with the right conditions, you can increase your chances of spotting and photographing them. Here's how:
1. Look to the Sky: Sundogs are most commonly observed within 22 degrees of the sun. Keep an eye on the sky, especially when you see cirrus or cirrostratus clouds.
2. Be Patient: Sundogs may appear and disappear quickly so, be patient and be ready to capture the moment when it happens.
3. Carry a Camera: Having a camera with you at all times, which is common with smartphones nowadays, can be the key to capturing the magic of sundogs when they occur.
The National Weather Service has more information on this unique cloud here if you want to learn more.
Remember, if you ever see something interesting like sundogs, take a photo and please send it to us via the First Coast News Weather Watchers Facebook page or via the Near Me Function on the First Coast News App.
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