Ever looked up and caught something so breathtaking, you felt the world hit pause for a second? That’s what happened when photographer Cessna Kutz pointed her lens toward the sky over Lake Sammamish and captured a phenomenon many of us have never seen: a fire rainbow. Despite its name, there’s no fire—and it’s not really a rainbow either.
This stunning display is officially called a circumhorizontal arc. It’s a rare optical event that only occurs under very specific conditions. But when it does, the result is pure magic—an iridescent ribbon of colors stretching horizontally across the sky like a brushstroke of wonder.
What Exactly Is a Fire Rainbow?
The science behind fire rainbows is fascinating. These events happen when the sun shines at a high angle—specifically, over 58 degrees above the horizon—and its light passes through cirrus clouds, which are made up of ice crystals. These crystals are flat and hexagonal in shape, and they act like tiny prisms.
When the light hits these crystals just right, it bends and spreads into a full spectrum of colors. That’s what creates the rainbow effect, but instead of forming a traditional arc, the colors run horizontally, painting the sky with bands of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue.
Are Fire Rainbows Really That Rare?
You might think these colorful arcs are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, but that’s not entirely true. If you live in a place where the sun rises high in the sky—like Los Angeles, Florida, or other southern U.S. states—you could see them several times a year during the summer months.
However, if you live farther north, like in the UK or parts of Northern Europe, your chances are much lower. That’s because the sun doesn’t reach the necessary angle in those regions. So yes, while fire rainbows are rare globally, some people might see them more often than others simply based on geography and weather conditions.
The Viral Shot That Stole the Internet’s Heart
One of the most talked-about fire rainbows of recent years came from none other than Cessna Kutz. On an ordinary day at Lake Sammamish, she looked up and spotted something extraordinary—a perfect fire rainbow lighting up the sky. She didn’t hesitate. With camera in hand, she snapped the photo that would soon go viral.
Video : Super Rare ‘Fire Rainbows’ Are a Magical Summer Phenomenon
Her Instagram caption was short but meaningful:
“Witnessed a pretty cool phenomenon out on Lake Sammamish today. A horizontal rainbow! To me, it was a little reminder to hold onto hope and love instead of fear and panic in these unknown times. Stay safe out there, friends.”
From Moment to Movement: How One Photo Inspired Thousands
Cessna’s image was quickly picked up by major media outlets. It spread like wildfire across social media platforms. But it wasn’t just the beauty of the shot that struck a chord—it was the emotion behind it. In a time filled with uncertainty, people found comfort in a sky painted with color and a message of calm.
Cessna later reflected on the attention, saying,
“I honestly had no idea these photos would make the news. I was just wanting to share a beautiful moment I got to witness. I’m super passionate about photography, so I’m grateful that God has used my photos to touch people—not just here in the U.S., but globally.”
Her story is a perfect reminder of how a single photo can ripple across the world, connecting strangers through shared awe.
How to Spot a Fire Rainbow Yourself
Think spotting a fire rainbow is impossible? Think again. While it does take some luck, knowing when and where to look helps.
Look for it in the summer when the sun is high—ideally midday. Cirrus clouds are your best friends in this quest; they’re the thin, wispy clouds high up in the atmosphere. Keep an eye on the southern sky if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, since that’s usually where the sun will be positioned at the right angle.
Even if you only see one once, you’ll never forget it.
The Science Meets the Soul
What makes fire rainbows so special isn’t just their scientific explanation. It’s the emotional impact they leave behind. They feel like a secret message from the universe—a reminder that beauty can appear when we least expect it, often when we need it the most.
Video :Top Facts About Fire Rainbow
People online didn’t just admire Cessna’s photo for its visual impact. They found meaning in it. Some saw hope. Others saw joy. And some just paused to appreciate the quiet brilliance of the natural world.
Final Thoughts: A Rainbow That Left a Mark
Cessna Kutz’s viral photo was more than just a lucky shot. It was a moment that reminded us all to slow down, look up, and stay present. It was a nudge to notice the little miracles around us. And in a world that’s often too busy or noisy, that’s a powerful message.
So next time you’re outside, take a moment to check the sky. You never know when nature might gift you a rare masterpiece. And if you’re lucky enough to see a fire rainbow? Be sure to share it—someone out there might need that splash of color more than you know.
