Photographer Captures Rare Rainbow Cloud Phenomenon Over Scotland

A photographer was stunned when she headed outside at sunset and captured a rare phenomenon called "rainbow clouds." Rainbow clouds – known as nacreous or polar stratospheric clouds – exist at very high altitudes and are relatively rare due to the conditions required to appear. The clouds form high in the stratosphere when temperatures reach –108F (–78C), making them most likely to be seen in the polar regions during winter. But on December 23, in Westhill, Aberdeen, Scotland, photographer Laryssa Erratt, 30, witnessed the phenomenon for herself. As well as capturing a series of stunning shots, Laryssa shot footage of birds flying across the breathtaking backdrop. The moment lasted about 25 minutes.