Vryheid residents paused in their tracks this morning (Thursday) when a bright circular halo formed around the sun, creating a spectacle that had locals reaching for their phones and sharing photos across social media.

What causes a 22-degree halo?

While the display looked almost otherworldly above town, experts confirm it is a well-understood natural event known as a 22-degree halo.

NASA explains the phenomenon

According to the NASA Earth Observatory, “Halos form when light is refracted by ice crystals in the atmosphere. The crystals act like prisms, bending the light and creating rings or arcs around the Sun or Moon.”

Cirrus clouds set the stage

These ice crystals float in high-level cirrus clouds — often seen drifting across the Vryheid sky before a change in weather.

SAWS confirms the conditions

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) notes that such conditions are completely normal:
“Optical phenomena like halos are common when cirrus clouds move in ahead of a frontal system. They are indicators of moisture and ice high in the atmosphere.”

Residents capture the moment

Residents across Vryheid, from the CBD to Bhekuzulu, reported the halo appearing shortly after 10:00. Many described the ring as ‘rainbow-like’ and ‘perfectly round’.

Safety reminder for sun photography

Although the sight drew plenty of excitement, meteorologists caution that people should never look directly at the sun when trying to photograph a halo.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zFhtEvMMG40

The science behind the ring

The physics behind the ring is straightforward. The National Weather Service (NWS) explains:
“A 22-degree halo is produced by the refraction of light through hexagonal ice crystals. The refraction splits and deflects the light, forming a circle around the sun or moon.”

Folklore and weather patterns

While the halo itself is harmless, old weather folklore suggests it may signal rain within the next 24 to 48 hours — a belief that sometimes holds true when cirrus clouds move in before a frontal system.

A brief moment of wonder

For now, Vryheid residents can simply enjoy the rare optical treat that briefly turned an ordinary weekday morning into something spectacular.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.