päikeselõõsked

Päikeselõõsked is a term used in Estonian to describe the visual phenomenon of intense sunlight reflecting off surfaces, particularly water. This can manifest as bright, shimmering patterns or a blinding glare. The word itself is a compound of "päike" (sun) and "lõõsk" (blaze or flash), literally translating to "sun blaze" or "sun flash."

These reflections are caused by the way sunlight interacts with the smooth surface of water. When light rays strike the water at certain angles, they are reflected specularly, meaning they bounce off in a concentrated beam rather than scattering in all directions. This creates the bright, dazzling effect often seen on lakes, seas, or even wet roads.

The intensity of päikeselõõsked depends on several factors, including the angle of the sun, the smoothness of the water's surface, and atmospheric conditions. Calm seas or lakes with minimal wind tend to produce more pronounced reflections. While often perceived as beautiful, exceptionally strong päikeselõõsked can be temporarily blinding and pose a hazard to drivers or anyone exposed to direct glare. The phenomenon is a common element in descriptions of summer landscapes in Estonian literature and art.