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Why do sunsets look incredible after nasty thunderstorms?

Sarah Jenkins
Sarah Jenkins
Lead Content Curator · Feb 14, 2026 · Updated Apr 13, 2026

The refraction of light from all the water vapour in the sky due to cloud cover and high humidity means brighter and more dramatic colours for us as the sun sets. Each water molecule acts kind of like a prism, distorting the light into different colours. A similar thing happens after a bush fire,…

63
Words

1 min
Read Time

#252
of 500 in Nature

-11%
vs Category Avg

The Short Answer

The refraction of light from all the water vapour in the sky due to cloud cover and high humidity means brighter and more dramatic colours for us as the sun sets. Each water molecule acts kind of like a prism, distorting the light into different colours. A similar thing happens after a bush fire, with a smoky sky making a stunning red sunset.

Analysis

Key Concepts: Light, water, colours

This explanation focuses on light, water, colours and spans 63 words across 3 sentences. The depth is typical for Nature questions (category average: 71 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.

What This Answer Covers

The explanation opens with: “The refraction of light from all the water vapour in the sky due to cloud cover and high humidity means brighter and mor” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.

How This Compares in Nature

Ranked #252 of 500 Nature questions by answer depth (top 51%). This is in the concise tier — a focused explanation that prioritizes clarity over exhaustiveness. Many readers prefer this level of directness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a simple explanation for why sunsets look incredible after nasty thunderstorms?

The refraction of light from all the water vapour in the sky due to cloud cover and high humidity means brighter and more dramatic colours for us as the sun sets. Each water molecule acts kind of like a prism, distorting the light into different…

How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Nature questions?

This is a focused answer at 63 words, ranked #252 of 500 Nature questions by depth. The key concepts covered are light, water, colours.

What approach does this answer take to explain sunsets look incredible after nasty thunderstorms?

The explanation uses direct explanation across 63 words. It is categorized under Nature and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.