On the morning of 28th October 2025 Residents in Quetta and parts of Balochistan were astonished early Tuesday morning when the sky put on a rare and breathtaking show — a multi-colored halo that formed around 6:20 a.m. and dissipated within minutes. The stunning ring of light, visible over Quetta, Noshki, Dalbandin, and surrounding areas, colored the morning sky with vibrant shades, leaving eyewitnesses agog.
Witnesses said the phenomenon was a “magical ring of colors” suspended above the horizon before gradually vanishing. Some people stopped in the streets to gaze at the phenomenon, while others rushed to capture the moment. Images and videos of the brilliant sight quickly circulated on social media, with residents terming it as “unbelievable” and “a moment of pure beauty.”
What Caused the Phenomenon?
As per Anjum Nazir, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) spokesperson, the unusual spectacle was due to the creation of a lenticular cloud above the eastern mountain range of Koh-i-Murdar close to Quetta.
“They are stable clouds and are lens-shaped,” Nazir said. “They usually occur on the downhill side of mountains when moist, stable air moves over the mountain.” The lenticular cloud was said to have formed about a half-hour before sunrise at 6:20 a.m. and vanished by 6:45 a.m.
Understanding Lenticular Clouds
Lenticular clouds are created when wet air moves over mountains, producing wave patterns in the sky. When the air rises and cools to its dew point, clouds develop over the tops. When the air sinks and heats, the vapor evaporates, creating the cloud’s distinct lens or saucer shape.
“Those clouds are so uniform and round that people even confuse them with UFOs (Unidentified Flying Objects),” Nazir said with a grin.
The Science Behind the Halo
Weather forecasters also elaborated that the ring of color observed surrounding the sun — a solar halo — is when sunlight passes through ice crystals in the upper atmosphere, usually in thin cirrus clouds. When the light bends and refracts, it creates a perfect circular rainbow around the sun.
Although these halos were harmless, experts urged viewers not to stare at the sun because the act itself could lead to eye damage.
Awe and Reactions Throughout Balochistan
The phenomenon soon became the breeze of town, with thousands posting photos and speculations on social media. Some interpreted it as a spiritual omen or harbinger of good luck, while others appreciated the scientific wonder of nature.
While Quetta is famous for its mountain scenery and varying weather, such a huesy halo is an unusual occurrence. The bright ring remained visible for a few minutes before it dissolved as clouds moved, but the images, videos, and enthusiasm are still going viral online.
A Reminder of Nature’s Wonder
Ultimately, the Mysterious Rainbow Halo over Quetta was a stunning reminder of nature’s secret creativity. For some, it was a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence — a moment that combined science and beauty in the sky at dawn. Residents now look forward to seeing such spectacular displays in the future.
