An unexplained phenomenon appeared high in the sky in Houston, Texas on Wednesday (March 23). A vertical reddish light shown in the middle of the sky boggled Houstonians as people rushed to call emergency personnel and news outlets.
Although many sources are calling the phenomenon a light pillar, an optical event that consists of vertical beams of light appearing in the atmosphere, unlike the conventional light pillar, the red vertical circle of light did not extend from its light source into the sky, but rather floated like something out of a sci-fi movie that leads to a portal to another world.
Media reports speculated that the torched beam of light was merely a reflection from a nearby refinery, however, that claim has not been verified by appropriate officials. Meanwhile, a plant in La Porte released a statement cautioning communities about possible effects from work at the plant.
“You may notice a bright orange flame, black smoke or a rumbling noise,” a statement from the plant said. “There is no danger to our community or workers … no need to take any action. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
That didn’t stop others from speculating. Meteorologists called it a red sprite, but this was quickly debunked as red sprites are often represented in groups of light that are produced over thunderstorms. Others referenced the witchy film Hocus Pocus and the DC action pic The Batman.
Some took a more serious approach to the light, referencing it as a sign of extraterrestrial existence or signs of the end of the world.
Photos Courtesy of J Harris, Jessica
