Strange clouds appear in the sky due to the ins… See more

The unusual formation seen in the sky in this image is most likely a rare cloud phenomenon known as a Fallstreak hole, sometimes called a “hole-punch cloud.” It can look dramatic and even mysterious, but it has a well-understood natural explanation. This type of cloud forms when a layer of mid-level clouds—usually made of tiny supercooled water droplets—suddenly begins to freeze.

When ice crystals start forming in one spot, the surrounding droplets quickly evaporate, leaving a large circular or oval gap in the cloud layer. Sunlight passing through that opening can create the bright glowing effect that makes the scene look almost like a portal in the sky.