The 'candilazos' of autumn return to Málaga: the meteorological phenomenon behind the spectacular reddish sunsets

Each sunset in recent days, Instagram is filled with spectacular red and orange skies. Breathtaking sunsets gifted by autumn in Málaga. Why does this phenomenon occur? Clouds dyed with intense colors. A phenomenon known in meteorology as 'candilazo' or 'arrebol' that also paints our sunrises with color.

What happens for a 'candilazo' to occur? It is part of the phenomenon of the dispersion of sunlight when the sun is closer to the horizon, the light that arrives is of soft hues, between red and orange. As this light passes through the clouds, it colors them. It happens, especially, in coastal areas, during autumn and winter, and the best time is the 15 minutes before sunrise and the 15 minutes after sunset.

Related news

Falapos, gata, rayos dormidos... The upcoming bad weather phenomena

If there are no clouds, there is no photo

Clouds are a crucial factor for the 'candilazo' to occur: if there are no clouds, there is no photo. One might think that clouds create the colors, but in reality, they only serve as a canvas to reflect the sunlight. Therefore, it is important that the sky is covered with clouds, but not too dense, so that the sun's rays can filter through them. The altitude at which they are located is also important. High or mid-level clouds are most likely to light up.

The best time is the 15 minutes before sunrise and the 15 minutes after sunset

There are other environmental factors to consider. Although it may not seem like it, a clean environment, free from pollution, greatly helps light dispersion. Humidity also plays a role, as suspended droplets scatter the rays. In autumn and winter, generally, humidity is lower than in the warmer seasons, making it the perfect time to head to a good viewpoint, at the right time, and prepare to share that unmatched postcard of Málaga.