In an intriguing meteorological event, mysterious holes appeared in clouds over the Czech Republic, prompting an explanation from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI). The phenomenon, known as “cavum” – a Latin term for hole or cavity – was captured by both satellite imagery and webcams across the country.
The fascinating cloud formation occurred at an altitude of over six kilometers, where temperatures reached a frigid -23°C. According to meteorologists, these holes form under specific conditions when a thin layer of supercooled water droplets exists in sub-zero temperatures.
What triggered this spectacular sight? The culprits were passing aircraft. When planes flew through these cloud layers, they initiated a chain reaction where the supercooled water droplets rapidly froze into ice crystals. As CHMI experts explained, these ice crystals then attracted more freezing water droplets, creating a domino effect that “cleaned” the surrounding area of water droplets.
The process doesn’t end there. The newly formed ice particles, being heavier than the original water droplets, begin falling earthward, their descent influenced by wind patterns. However, due to the drier air beneath the cloud, these ice particles evaporate before reaching the ground.