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Precipitation is a natural phenomenon that we are all familiar with, no matter where we live. While some places may receive rain or snow almost every day, others may experience extremely rare rainfall. However, it has been calculated that globally averaged annual precipitation is around 990 millimeters. Though deserts and high latitudes receive 25% less precipitation than other areas, it’s not just water, ice, and snow that can fall from the sky.
In this video, we explore some of the strangest things that have ever fallen from the sky, instead of the usual snow or rain. For instance, in September 2017, people in the Mexican state of Tamolipas witnessed a rain of fish falling from the sky. This rare weather phenomenon happens when a water spout occurs somewhere in the ocean, and low atmospheric pressure and strong winds lift the fish from the water’s surface to the sky. After a while, the wind brings the fish to the land, causing this unusual rain. This natural phenomenon is considered rare, but it happens almost every year in some parts of the world, like in Australia in March 2016.
Another unique phenomenon we discuss is spider rain, which occurred in May 2015, near Goulburn, New South Wales. Although many people panicked, scientists explained that this is a normal occurrence that happens worldwide. In May and August, newborn spiderlings climb trees and weave a parachute-like web. The wind then picks them up and carries them around, allowing spiders to spread to new territories.
Red rains are another rare natural phenomenon that can be quite alarming. While it may seem like blood falling from the sky, it’s just colored water. Every time this phenomenon occurs, it sparks a lot of debate, with some people believing it to be caused by the explosion of meteorites or extraterrestrial cells. However, scientists have always found a logical explanation for it. For example, red rain in India in 2001 was caused by algae spores that mixed with precipitation.
In February 2014, the inhabitants of the island of Java in Indonesia experienced a new phenomenon. Mount Kelut erupted, causing such a huge column of ash that it covered almost the entire surface of the island. The ash covered airports and stopped air traffic completely, and several houses collapsed under the weight. The ash covered the entire city of Suribaya with a thick layer.
Lastly, we discuss the world’s first automated transfer vehicle named Jules Vern, which launched on March 9th, 2008, carrying 500 kilograms of food, 140 kilograms of spare parts, and 80 kilograms of clothing. While it may seem like a natural phenomenon, it’s actually man-made, and what you see is the destruction of the vehicle.
While unusual precipitation is not always fun, it’s interesting to learn about these unique natural and man-made phenomena.
