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Crepuscular rays over Tazewell County (Photo: Travis Roberts)
Brilliant rays of light are sometimes visible in a clear blue sky in our area during the summer months after sunset. These are sometimes called sunbeams, but are officially known as crepuscular rays.
These unique optics are caused by clouds over the horizon casting a shadow. They are often seen in the warmer months of the year when towering cumulus clouds form.
They can often be seen at sunset and are created as the taller cumulus clouds block sunlight. Particles in the atmosphere reflect light that we see, but the shadow is causing part of the sky to not be illuminated.
If you see a neat weather event, snap a picture and send it to the WVVA Weather Team of Facebook or Twitter. We’d love to share your picture with our viewers!
