When rain falls from a seemingly clear sky while the sun continues to shine brightly, it creates a unique atmospheric display. This unusual weather event often catches people by surprise, blending the warmth of sunlight with the refreshing coolness of falling drops. This phenomenon has long fascinated observers, prompting both scientific inquiry and imaginative interpretations across various cultures.
The Phenomenon’s Many Names
The most widely recognized term for this unique weather event in English-speaking regions is a “sun shower.” This name describes the simultaneous occurrence of sunshine and rainfall. While common in places like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK, another related term, “serein shower,” refers to rain that falls during or after sunset.
The Science Behind Sun Showers
Rain always originates from clouds, which are composed of water and ice particles. Sun showers occur when raindrops fall from a cloud that is not directly overhead or has dissipated.
One explanation involves strong prevailing winds carrying raindrops several miles away from their parent cloud. These drops are then deposited in an area where the sun is unobscured by clouds.
Another scenario involves rapidly dissipating clouds. A cloud might release its last drops of moisture and then quickly vanish. As the cloud dissipates, the sun becomes visible. Additionally, the angle of the sun can allow sunlight to pass through even if a rain-producing cloud is present, especially when the sun is lower in the sky.
Sun Showers in Folklore
Across the globe, sun showers have inspired numerous folkloric explanations, often involving clever animals or supernatural figures. In the Southern United States, a common saying is “the devil is beating his wife,” with the rain representing her tears. This phrase traces its origins to a French play from 1703.
Many cultures associate sun showers with animal weddings, particularly those of trickster figures. In Japan, Korea, and parts of India, the phenomenon is known as a “fox’s wedding.” This belief suggests that foxes are holding a secret wedding ceremony and use the rain to hide their procession from human eyes. In South Africa, a sun shower is often called a “monkey’s wedding,” a term derived from Zulu. Other interpretations include a “wolf’s wedding” in France, or beliefs about witches combing their hair in Catalan folklore or making butter in Poland.