'Fire rainbow' pops up in the sky over Singapore

The unusual phenomenon over Singapore. Photo / Fazidah Mokhtar

A bright rainbow-like phenomenon has appeared in the skies over Singapore, leaving locals delighted.

The unusual rainbow effect popped up behind a cloud on Monday afternoon but only lasted for about 15 minutes.

It's not yet certain what caused the display but there were some suggestions in media reports that it was a fire rainbow.

The sight lasted for about 15 minutes. Photo / Nayla Yg Tercakiti

It's not yet certain what caused the display. Photo / HamsLuminiq

That phenomenon occurs when light refracts through clouds made up of ice crystals at high altitudes, creating a multi-coloured effect in the sky.

Another suggestion was that of an iridescent cloud which occurs when water droplets or ice crystals in the air scatter light.

But it prompted plenty of comment online with some social media users comparing it to a Rainbow Paddle Pop.

The Streets frozen creation is a swirl of pink, purple and yellow icecream.