Sky

Shining Circle Around the Sun or Moon: What is it?

Sometimes we can see a brightly shining circle around the Sun, the Moon, or even an artificial light source (for example, a lantern). This natural phenomenon is called “halo”. It appears because of the refraction of light in ice crystals in the upper atmosphere at an altitude of 5-10 km.

Earth

Have You Seen These Underwater Bubbles?

Icy underwater bubbles are one of the most curious natural phenomena. In the Canadian province of Alberta, there is Lake Abraham, which is known among scientists and nature lovers because of an unusual phenomenon: a large number of ice bubbles that have frozen under water. These fantastic circles are actually made up of methane bubbles.

Earth

Have You Seen Ice Needles?

Ice needles instead of snow. Did you know that sometimes, instead of ordinary snowflakes, real ice needles can fall from the sky? These are small and very sharp ice crystals that can even cut the skin. They are formed from solidified water droplets and are usually found in Siberia and the Far North.

Sky

World Lightning Capital

Do you know where the “World Lightning Capital” is? To visit it, you will have to go to Venezuela, to the municipality of Catatumbo. It was this area that got the title of the “World Lightning Capital” after the Guinness Book of Records recorded the world’s highest concentration of lightning in this region.

Sky

Have You Seen Polar Lights?

Polar lights are one of the most beautiful natural phenomena on Earth If we were to rank the most beautiful atmospheric phenomena, we would definitely give one of the highest places to polar lights. The ideal time for them is clear frosty nights from September to March at latitudes of about 67–70°.

Sky

Overcast vs Cloudy Weather: What's the Difference?

While overcast and cloudy weather conditions both involve clouds in the sky, there is an important distinction between the two terms. Let’s take a closer look at what defines overcast weather and what defines cloudy weather. Overcast Weather Overcast refers to dense, complete, or nearly complete cloud cover where clouds obscure most or all of the sky and block out direct sunlight.

Earth

Frosty Days Per Year in Europe

Not sure what the source is, but it is useful data anyway. Here comes the number of days with temperatures below 0 per year.

Earth

Minimum Temperatures Across Europe

Most of Europe at least.

Earth

December 2024 Compared to December Months from 1923 to 2023

Meteorological vs Astronomical Winter - What's the Difference?

While many associate the winter season with cold weather, snowy landscapes and the holiday season, there is more than one way to define the beginning and end of winter. Meteorologists and astronomers use two different systems to delineate the seasons - meteorological winter and astronomical winter. Let’s explore the key differences between these two definitions of winter.

Understanding Colorful Weather Maps: What Do the Colors Really Mean?

If you’ve ever tuned into a weather broadcast or checked a weather app, you’ve likely seen vibrant, colorful maps. While they might look similar at first glance, these maps often represent very different types of information. Misunderstanding the purpose of these maps can lead to confusion. Let’s break down two common types:

Sky

What Differs Drizzle From Similar Phenomena?

Drizzle is a type of light rainfall characterised by very fine water droplets falling from the sky. It typically occurs when the temperature is above freezing, around 5 to 10 degrees Celsius (41 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit), can also happen at slightly colder or significantly higher temperatures. Light drizzle is common in regions with mild or cool climates, especially during transitional seasons like spring and autumn.