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All things Siesta Key. Stories, news, and event information about Sarasota, Florida's beautiful beach.
What Is The Green Flash and How Can I See One?
This intriguing and rare phenomenon is truly something special to experience. Occurring during the transitional phases of sunrise and sunset, the Green Flash lasts just for a second, if it happens at all. Such elusiveness can make it seem difficult to experience, but there are definitely ways to optimize your chance of seeing the “Green Flash,” and witnessing a Florida sunset is definitely one of them. At The Best Western Siesta Key, we can offer some insight and pointers on the best times and places to see the Green Flash here in Siesta Key.
What Is the Green Flash?
Scientifically speaking, the Green Flash is a rare phenomenon that occurs when specific meteorological conditions collide. It usually happens when there are differences between the temperature of the water surface and the air directly above it, or if the air is hazy just above the water surface. The Green Flash is actually part of the prism that occurs when the light of the sun touches the horizon, but not all of the colors of the prism are visible. As the reds, oranges, and yellows from the sunset are absorbed into the atmosphere, they scatter the blue and violet light waves, leaving behind a green light wave for just a moment.
Why Is The Green Flash So Special?
Since the Green Flash doesn’t occur every time the sun sets, it’s truly rare to actually witness it yourself. The first photo of this phenomenon was taking by D.K.J. O’Connell in 1960 from the Vatican Observatory. Since that time, many researchers, scientists, and sunset connoisseurs have attempted to capture this elusive light on camera. Airplane pilots and scientists conducting research near the south pole commonly report sightings of the Green Flash and say it lasts longer for them. Pilots tend to see it when flying west since the sunset takes longer for them. South Pole researchers have experienced the Green Flast for up to 35 minutes since there is nothing obscuring the view and the atmospheric conditions are just right. But for most people who see the Green Flash from a boat, coastline, or mountaintop, the moment is there and gone, so it’s important to enjoy it while you can.
When Is the Best Time to See the Green Flash?
There’s not a particular season in which these flashes occur more often than others. That means, whenever you visit our beautiful shores, you always have a chance of witnessing one of nature’s more uncommon phenomena. The best conditions for spotting the Green Flash are with an unobstructed view of the horizon. Because it’s a trick of the light, having a clear view of the sunset melting into the horizon is your best chance of seeing the Green Flash while you’re in Florida. Spend time on the beach at sunset or join a chartered sunset cruise one evening while you’re here. Then be sure to keep a close eye on the sunset just in case conditions are perfect for a Green Flash. You won’t want to miss it!
No matter when you come to Florida, you’re certain to experience the natural beauty of our beaches and environment. If you happen to also catch an elusive Green Flash at sunset, consider yourself lucky! Even if you’re watching for a flash that never happens, we know you’ll enjoy an incredible sunset in the meantime, and that’s worth watching anyway! To learn about our own experiences with the Green Flash, or to find the perfect sunset viewing spots on Siesta Key, talk to the professionals at The Best Western Siesta Key. We have plenty of Florida history and experience among us to offer as you explore the wonders of our little island.