Did you see this unusual cloud formation in the South Okanagan?

PENTICTON – An unusual weather phenomenon could be seen in the South Okanagan early this afternoon.

Motorists on Highway 97 south of Penticton stopped to take photos of this unusually coloured cloud formation around noon today, June 14.

The phenomenon is known as “cloud iridescence,” and is the occurrence of colours in a cloud similar to those seen in oil films on puddles.

Wikipedia describes the phenomenon as “fairly common,” most often observed in altocumulus, cirrocumulus, lenticular or cirrus clouds.

The cloud’s colours are caused by small water droplets or small ice crystals individually scattering light.

Larger ice crystals do not produce the iridescence, but can cause halos, which are a different phenomenon.

Did you see the iridescent clouds south of Penticton around noon today? Share your pictures on our Facebook page or send to news@infonews.ca.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Steve Arstad or call 250-488-3065 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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