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Meteorologists explain mysterious light pillars in the sky over Luninets

MINSK, 11 January (BelTA) - Residents of Luninets, Brest Oblast of Belarus spotted enigmatic light pillars in the sky. As pictures went viral online, BelTA sought an explanation from the National Center for Hydrometeorology, Radioactive Pollution Control, and Environmental Monitoring (Belhydromet).

Specialists believe this visual effect could have been caused by fine snowflakes in the air. Snow crystals form a halo when light from the moon or street lamps refracts within them, creating glowing pillars or arcs. This occurs under specific weather conditions.

“This optical phenomenon appears when temperatures are minus 10 degrees Celsius or lower, during light snowfall, and in the presence of a light source. The source can be the sun or the moon,” explained Belhydromet.

Meteorologists reported that Cyclone Ulli, which brought snowfalls to Belarus, is losing strength. Snow is still falling across most of the country, but it is light. At the same time, frosts are intensifying. 

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