Can weather forecasters predict rainbows?

Can weather forecasters predict rainbows?

"Somewhere, there might be a rainbow..."


Asked by: John, Southampton

A rainbow is created when sunlight splits into various colours as it enters raindrops. These rays then bounce off the interior and re-emerge at slightly different angles, depending on their colour. Seeing a rainbow thus depends on where you're standing relative to the Sun and the raindrops. So while forecasters can predict the conditions of patchy cloud and showery conditions that make a rainbow likely, they can't tell if you'll be in just the right place to see one.

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun facts.

© Getty Images