háhýringar

Háhýringar is a term used in Icelandic to describe a phenomenon of unusual or prolonged atmospheric optical effects. It is not a scientifically recognized meteorological term but rather a folk or colloquial description. The term itself can be broken down to "há" meaning high or above, and "hýringar" which can loosely translate to shimmering, haze, or aurora-like displays.

These phenomena are often observed during specific atmospheric conditions, sometimes after volcanic eruptions or during periods of intense solar activity. People have reported seeing vibrant colors, distorted light patterns, or unusual halos around the sun or moon that persist for extended periods. Historically, such sightings have sometimes been associated with omens or supernatural events in Icelandic folklore due to their striking and unusual nature.

The exact scientific explanation for all reported instances of háhýringar can vary. Some might be attributed to specific types of ice crystals in the atmosphere causing complex halos and sun dogs, known as parhelia. Other, more dramatic displays could potentially be linked to atmospheric dust or aerosols scattering sunlight in unique ways, or even faint aurora borealis activity seen at unusual times or locations. The term encapsulates a range of visual experiences that captured the imagination and were described using the readily available Icelandic vocabulary.