Hikers left stunned after witnessing a rare weather phenomenon on a Welsh mountain this past weekend. Climbing Crib Goch, they were near the summit of Garnedd Ugain when they spotted an unusual sight – a “rainbow-like” halo with a figure inside, next to Crib Goch. The unexpected display elicited reactions of astonishment, with onlookers exclaiming “what the f***” and “oh my God.” Perplexed by the unfamiliar sight, the hikers turned to online research and discovered it was a natural occurrence known as a Brocken Spectre.
The Brocken Spectre, named after the German mountain where it was first observed, involves a large shadow of an observer cast onto cloud or mist, creating the illusion of a gigantic figure. The term ‘Brocken spectre’ dates back to 1780, coined by German pastor and natural scientist Johann Silberschlag. This optical illusion has been featured in literature by renowned authors such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Charles Dickens, and Lewis Carroll.
One of the hikers, Oliver Bowden, recounted the experience to North Wales Live, stating, “The views were amazing, and it was the first time any of us had seen one before, so we felt really lucky.” The intriguing phenomenon occurs when an observer’s shadow is projected through mist or cloud, creating the impression of a distant, oversized shadow figure. As the shadow falls upon water droplets at varying distances, the perception is distorted, resulting in the illusion of a giant shadow in the distance.
The group’s encounter with the Brocken Spectre on Garnedd Ugain highlights the captivating wonders of nature that can be witnessed in the Welsh mountains. The combination of atmospheric conditions and sunlight created a surreal and enchanting moment for the hikers, leaving them in awe of the natural spectacle.
This remarkable incident serves as a reminder of the breathtaking beauty and surprises that nature has to offer, even in familiar surroundings such as the Welsh mountains. As hikers continue to explore and traverse these majestic landscapes, they may be fortunate enough to witness rare phenomena like the Brocken Spectre, adding an extra element of wonder and magic to their outdoor adventures.