The meltemi winds, also called the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and unique natural sensation linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, dry, and usually reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is magnified by the area's several islands, which work as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It typically picks up strength during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically appear during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions but it also brings cooling, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult however satisfying for experienced sailors. Preparation is key to navigating in these conditions, consisting of examining weather prediction and intending paths very carefully. It's likewise essential to choose a trusted charter business that can give regional understanding and recommendations.
Vacationers checking out the Aegean during meltemi season should be aware of the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferries. However, there are still a lot of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to follow the safety and security standards below and wear ideal garments. Also, avoid getting in the water throughout top wind hours. This will certainly help you prevent obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating feature of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north winds are influenced by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it likewise offers obstacles.
The etesian winds strike from June via September yet they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. The good news is, skilled seafarers recognize what to anticipate and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi usually gets in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and then fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can create horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a great number of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are experienced in keeping their towns shielded by developing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are awesome completely dry winds that solidify the warm summertime sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a height in July and August. They are usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced pressure trough over Turkey. They normally blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be tough for much less skilled seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they produce effective currents. However, they supply air conditioning, low moisture and good exposure. They are toughest during the afternoon and normally calm down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute of the Aegean summer.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The result is an effective wind tunnel that impacts with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few yacht preference sheet days at a time, peaking in July and August. They generally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can sometimes be also more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They supply optimal conditions for thrilling sailing journeys. For numerous, this is the main factor they select to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise a natural air conditioner that maintains temperatures trendy and minimizes humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, connecting modern-day tourists to old seafaring traditions.
