New Yorkers gather to watch 'Manhattanhenge' as the sun sets in alignment with the city grid

People take photographs as they view the 'Manhattanhenge' sunset. Photo / Michael Appleton, Mayoral Photography Office NYC

A rare solar phenomenon has made an appearance in New York City, with thousands stopping traffic to snap that perfect picture.

For the second time this year, "Manhattanhenge" has made its appearance in New York, with thousands flooding city streets to see the phenomenon.

Manhattanhenge is the name given for when the setting sun aligns with the east-west streets of the city's street grid system.

When the sunset aligns perfectly with the streets of NYC and makes a brilliant #Manhattanhenge pic.twitter.com/0WsghPAF4n

— Christian Onassis™ Κρίστιαν Ωνάσης™ (@COnassis) July 12, 2016

It's similar to Stonehenge in Salisbury where the sun, on the solstice, sets in alignment with the stones.

Manhattenhenge happens at either side of the summer solstice, when the sun reaches its greatest height in the sky usually between May 28 and July 12.

Thousands of people dodged traffic to get the best photos of the solar phenomenon and shared them on social media.

Here are some of the best:

Hysteria over #Manhattanhenge pic.twitter.com/oRXPQOB8li

— Nico Maounis (@nicomaounis) July 12, 2016

We ❤️ NYC. #Manhattanhenge pic.twitter.com/AbdxisYZcH

— NYC Mayor's Office (@NYCMayorsOffice) July 12, 2016