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Searching for wonders: Hawaii - Rainbow capital of the world?

06:00
6 February 2023

Searching for wonders
Hawaii: Rainbow capital of the world?

Double rainbow

We all love seeing a rainbow on a damp day, brightening the sky above. If you want to see the best rainbows in the world, you should take a trip to Hawaii.

Dubbed the rainbow capital of the world, the Hawaiian islands hold the optical illusion close to heart. They are reflected in the state’s culture and language thanks to a steady supply of the coloured arches over the years.

A study released by the University of Hawai’i delved deeper into the relationship.

Firstly, the island is perfectly placed to see rainbows. Located in the subtropical Pacific, Hawaii’s weather is dominated by trade winds and frequent rain showers.

It also benefits from a warm sea surface heating the atmosphere from below to produce clouds, while mountains push trade winds to move upwards producing rain clouds.

Far from mainland U.S. the air around Hawaii is remarkably clean and free of pollution, helping produce bright and vibrant rainbows containing a full spectrum of colour.

In conclusion, Hawaii is an almost perfect rainbow generating island. Routinely creating the conditions needed for their appearance and being inspired by the illusion for generations.

Ryan Hathaway
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