Are double rainbows rare?

Double rainbows are pretty great, but they're not as rare as you might think. colebech/ThinkStock If you were to go by viral video alone, you might be under the impression that double rainbows are not just uncommon, but the most extraordinary feat that nature has created. read more

It is rare and unlikely, but three or even four rainbows can be seen on occasion, but only if they are reflected off of the earthly objects. The best time to see a rainbow is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is lower in the sky. When the sun is in a lower position, a higher bow can be seen. read more

A normal single arc rainbow is caused when sunlight enters a raindrop with a light-path refracted>reflected>refracted. A double rainbow occurs when sunlight hits a part of the raindrop at a different angle of incidence, at which the light-path is refracted>reflected>reflected>refracted. read more