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PMD Confirms Rare Lenticular Cloud Over Quetta After Viral Pre-Dawn Sighting

Meteorologists attribute the lens-shaped, iridescent display to stable, moist air flowing over Koh-e-Murdar.

Overview

  • The Pakistan Meteorological Department said a lenticular cloud formed over Koh-e-Murdar early Oct. 28, lasting about 20 minutes before dissipating near sunrise.
  • Residents across Quetta and parts of Balochistan, including Nushki and Dalbandin, recorded vivid cloud iridescence sometimes described as a fire rainbow.
  • PMD spokesperson Anjum Nazir explained that orographic waves from air flowing over the mountains produced a stationary, lens-shaped cloud.
  • Images and videos spread widely on social media as some users speculated about missiles, military technology, or aircraft contrails, which experts dismissed as incorrect.
  • The UK Met Office notes lenticular clouds often resemble flying saucers and are a common natural explanation for UFO reports.