A mesmerizing weather event called a “crown flash” has taken social media by storm after a rare video of the phenomenon was shared online. This unique event occurs when the electrical fields in a thunderstorm cause ice crystals above the clouds to realign and reflect sunlight like spotlight beams. Despite the prevalence of cameras today, only a handful of documented instances of this phenomenon exist, with the first described in 1885.

The video, captured over Miami Beach, Florida, by meteorologist James Spann, shows a beam of light seemingly shining over the clouds. It captivated viewers and sparked excitement on social media. Meteorologists have confirmed it as a genuine crown flash, with some expressing disbelief at this unusual optical effect. The video has since received over 618,000 views on Twitter, showing the widespread fascination and awe this rare event has generated.

While the precise cause of crown flashes is still debated, meteorologists suggest that it involves plate or needle-shaped ice crystals realigning during changes in the electric field of a cumulonimbus cloud, reflecting sunlight in a specific direction. Despite its rarity, a few other documented instances of crown flashes have occurred in the past, including over Texas in May 2022 and in Florida in August 2020. The natural world continues to captivate and inspire us with its unique and stunning displays.

Spotted over Miami Beach today… video from Leland Randleman. What do you think? pic.twitter.com/2BBiFCyC6g

— James Spann (@spann) April 28, 2023