Rare celestial phenomena have been observed in the UK skies, captivating skygazers with their otherworldly appearance. But are these ‘UFO clouds’ truly extraterrestrial or just a fascinating meteorological phenomenon?
Rare ‘UFO clouds’ Spotted in UK Skies
Skygazers in northern parts of the UK have been reporting otherworldly goings-on taking place overhead. What has been observed may look like flying saucers, but they are actually lenticular clouds, also referred to by some as pancake or UFO clouds.
What Are Lenticular Clouds?
The meteorological name for these clouds is altocumulus lenticularis. The term “lenticular” comes from the Latin word for lens-shaped, which aptly describes their appearance. These clouds are relatively rare in the UK and require specific weather conditions to form.
Formation of Lenticular Clouds
For lenticular clouds to occur in the UK, we need to be on the edge of an area of high pressure, with a brisk wind blowing at a right angle to a hill or mountain range. When this happens, a layer of slightly warmer air can occur higher up in the atmosphere that acts like an invisible ceiling. If that ‘ceiling’ occurs just above the hill tops, the fast-flowing air bounces downwind of the hills, creating conditions for cloud formation.
Recent Sightings
On Thursday and Friday morning, south-westerly winds meant the clouds appeared to the north-east of the Grampians, Highlands, and Pennines. Many examples of lenticular clouds were seen in the skies above north-east England, including in Durham Cathedral and Gateshead.
Will There Be More This Weekend?
With high pressure still close by and a brisk wind likely in the north and west of the UK, it may be possible to see more of these stunning clouds over the weekend. Areas with the best chance will be around Moray, north Cumbria, and maybe north Wales due to a slight shift in wind direction.
Image sources: BBC WeatherWatcher / Ybbon, Ronbytheloch, IanW, Cambus Booler, Northern Cockney, Stella Spark, Mark, silverteasel
- bbc.com | Rare UFO clouds spotted in UK skies
- www.bbc.co.uk | BBC Weather Rare UFO clouds spotted in UK skies
