Solar halo phenomenon observed in Salvador and Ilhéus

A solar halo, a luminous circle appearing around the Sun with rainbow-like colors, was observed by residents in Salvador and Ilhéus on Friday. The phenomenon was widely documented and shared on social media.

This optical effect is caused by sunlight interacting with ice crystals found in high-altitude clouds, specifically cirrostratus clouds. As light passes through these microscopic crystals, it undergoes refraction or reflection, creating the ring effect. According to information attributed to the National Institute of Meteorology (Inmet), these clouds typically reside at high altitudes, approximately 10 kilometers above the ground.

While visually striking, the solar halo is a natural phenomenon and does not pose a direct risk to the population. However, experts advise against looking directly at the Sun during the event to avoid potential retinal damage from intense light exposure.