Incidents of fish falling from the sky often shock people and spark widespread curiosity. Although the phenomenon appears unbelievable, several regions in India and across the world have witnessed it. In recent years, reports of fish rain emerged from parts of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, leaving residents confused and amazed. Scientists, however, say clear natural reasons explain this rare event.
Rare but Real Natural Phenomenon
People commonly experience heavy rain and hailstorms during extreme weather. On very rare occasions, storms also bring down fish and small aquatic creatures. India has recorded a few such incidents, mostly during the monsoon season. Meanwhile, some regions abroad witness fish rain more frequently. In one city in the American continent, residents even celebrate it as a festival.
Scientists firmly state that fish do not live in the sky. Instead, extreme weather conditions create situations where fish appear to fall from above. Powerful tornadoes, whirlwinds, and waterspouts develop over rivers, lakes, and oceans during severe storms. These rotating air columns lift water along with fish and other small creatures into the air. Later, when the storm weakens, gravity pulls them back to the ground.
How Does Fish Rain Occur?
A recent example came from Texarkana, Texas, where residents found fish scattered across roads after a storm. Strong whirlwinds formed over nearby water bodies and carried the fish upward. Once the winds lost strength, the fish fell over land, creating the illusion of fish rain.
Similar incidents occurred in California and northwestern Siberia, where storms dropped frogs, crabs, and snakes along with rain. India has also seen such rare events. In Kerala in 2019, fish rain surprised locals. In Jagtial town of Telangana in 2022, residents witnessed fish falling during heavy rainfall. A similar case emerged in Uttar Pradesh’s Patohi district in 2021. Most of these incidents occurred during intense monsoon weather.
Yoro in Honduras: A Fish Rain Festival
The city of Yoro in Honduras has gained global attention for its frequent fish rain, locally known as “Lluvia de Peces.” This phenomenon usually occurs once or twice every year between May and July. After the rain, residents collect the fish, cook them, and celebrate the event like a festival. Over time, fish rain has become an important cultural identity for the city.
What Scientists Clearly Explain
According to scientists, only lightweight fish and small aquatic creatures get lifted by strong whirlwinds. These storms do not create fish but simply transport them from water bodies to land. Once the air currents weaken, they release the creatures, making it appear as if fish fall from the sky.
In conclusion, fish rain may look mysterious, but nature causes it through extreme weather patterns. While rare, this fascinating phenomenon continues to amaze people whenever it occurs.
