The Rainbow prediction model analyzes weather conditions including rainfall patterns, sunlight intensity, solar angles, and atmospheric clarity to forecast rainbow formation opportunities. The model uses ECMWF weather data combined with aerosol optical depth measurements to provide accurate probability assessments. Rainbow forecasts are updated daily with real-time atmospheric conditions to maximize viewing success rates.

Choose Location
Choose Time Slot
Empty all selections
Search The Reports

Location — Date — Rainbow

Local Rainbow Time

--:--
Recommend Level
--
Reason and description
Air Quality Index
--
Reason and description

Interactive Rainbow Grid Map

High (>66%)
Medium (33-66%)
Low (<33%)
No Data

Methodology And Photo Reference

Our rainbow prediction system analyzes multiple atmospheric variables including precipitation patterns, direct solar irradiance, solar elevation angles, and aerosol optical depth. The model uses a 3x3 grid scanning approach around each location to capture localized weather variations. Advanced algorithms calculate the probability of simultaneous sunlight and rainfall conditions occurring at optimal solar angles for rainbow formation.

Rainbow Quality Reference

Rainbow Quality Reference: Examples of different rainbow intensities and atmospheric conditions from faint (1 star) to vivid (3 stars)

Optimal Observation Guide

Maximize your rainbow observation success with these professional tips based on meteorological principles and photography best practices.

🌅 Optimal Timing

Look for "sun showers" - when it's raining but the sun is still shining. Best opportunities occur just after thunderstorms when the sun breaks through clouds.

📍 Best Positioning

Stand with the sun behind you and look towards the rain. The rainbow will appear opposite the sun. Use elevated ground when possible for better viewing angles.

🔍 What to Look For

Watch for dark storm clouds with bright areas where sunlight breaks through. The contrast between dark clouds and bright light often creates the most vivid rainbows.

Atmospheric Conditions Explanation

Rainbow formation requires specific atmospheric conditions including simultaneous sunlight and rainfall, optimal solar angles, and atmospheric clarity. Understanding these factors helps interpret prediction accuracy and timing.

Solar Angle Optimal rainbow visibility occurs when the sun is 40-42° above the horizon. Lower angles may produce partial rainbows, while higher angles make rainbows invisible from ground level.
Simultaneous Sun & Rain The critical requirement: sunlight must illuminate raindrops from behind the observer. This creates the refraction and reflection needed for rainbow formation. Timing is everything.
Air Quality (AOD) Clean air (low aerosol content) produces the most vivid colors. Moderate haze can enhance red colors but may obscure blue and violet bands. Heavy pollution significantly reduces rainbow visibility.
Precipitation Type Light to moderate rainfall with uniform droplet size creates the best rainbows. Heavy downpours can block sunlight, while very light mist may not provide sufficient refraction.