Golden Cumulus Clouds over Mt Makiling at Sunrise

Photographer: Paul Anton D. Mahinay  
Summary Author: Paul Anton D. Mahinay  

Shown above are eye-catching, cumulus clouds as observed at sunrise over Mt Makiling, from a highway, near Batangas, Philippines. The golden color of the clouds at right is due to the increased pathlength of sunlight (greater scattering) as the Sun approaches the horizon. Note that the cirrus clouds (lower left), attaining higher altitudes than the cumulus clouds, show little coloring. Additionally, airborne dust and haze act to further enhance scattering.  

Mt. Makiling is a dormant volcano. Its name is derived from Maria Makiling, a guardian fairy of the mountains in Philippine Mythology. Photo taken on March 3, 2022.

 

Batangas, Philippines Coordinates: 14.1364, 121.1944

Related Links:

Vulcan de Fuego and Golden Sky