Many people in Xuan Loc District, Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam were excited to capture photos of a giant cloud resembling a flying saucer that appeared over the peak of Chua Chan Mountain on Thursday.

Around 6:00 am on the same day, the flying-saucer-shaped cloud began to form atop Chua Chan Mountain, gradually expanding in size. 

Within about an hour, the cloud disk covered the entire summit, which stands over 800 meters above sea level, making it visible from dozens of kilometers away.

This captivating natural display excited many locals, who eagerly took photos and shared them on social media. 

Residents noted that while this type of cloud occasionally appears at the mountaintop, it is typically smaller and less defined than the one seen on Thursday.

“These clouds were clearer and lasted longer this time,” said Hau, a local resident.

Nguyen Duc Tan, who lives at the base of Chua Chan Mountain in Xuan Loc District, added that while clouds have been visible on the mountain recently, they were not so large or dense as Thursday’s display.

"Typically, this kind of cloud forms on rainy days, but it’s usually just a misty shroud, not as clear and impressive as today," Tan explained.

The Dong Nai Province Hydrometeorological Station identified the cloud formation as a lenticular cloud, a type commonly seen over high mountains.

When moving air encounters the mountain, it creates atmospheric waves that are generally invisible. 

However, under favorable conditions -- such as moderate temperatures and high humidity -- the waves push moist air upwards, leading to condensation and the formation of lenticular clouds.

These clouds can appear as multi-layered flying saucers or as a cone over the mountain.

They may form directly on the summit or on the leeward side, either individually or in chains. 

Another manifestation of mountain waves can create cloud sheets resembling evenly arranged almonds. 

Although mountain waves are not common, they are not extremely rare, and no special events have been recorded following their appearance.

Located about 100 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, Chua Chan Mountain, also known as Gia Lao Mountain, rises to 837 meters above sea level. 

It is considered the ‘roof’ of Dong Nai Province and the second-highest mountain in southeast Vietnam, following Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province.

In 2012, Chua Chan Mountain was designated a national scenic relic. 

It features unique and captivating landscapes that are rare in the south, making it a popular tourist destination. 

Visitors are drawn for activities such as cable car rides, mountain climbing, camping, and parachuting.

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