The meltemi winds, also referred to as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique natural phenomenon linked exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and often rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is intensified by the region's lots of islands, which act as all-natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It commonly picks up toughness during the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally appear during the summertime between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems yet it also brings air conditioning, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult yet rewarding for experienced seafarers. Preparation is essential to browsing in these problems, including inspecting weather prediction and planning paths meticulously. It's also essential to select a reputable charter business that can supply local knowledge and recommendations.
Visitors visiting the Aegean during meltemi season must recognize the potential for rough seas and strong currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. However, there are still lots of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to comply with the safety guidelines below and wear proper garments. Additionally, prevent entering the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly aid you prevent getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring function of summer in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are influenced by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it additionally offers obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June via September however they have been understood to begin a month previously in May. The good news is, skilled seafarers understand what to anticipate and can prepare accordingly.
The meltemi normally picks up in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and after that fades by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can create nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are competent in keeping their villages safeguarded by developing rock walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are great dry winds that toughen up the hot summer season sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with an optimal in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are windiest greek islands produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low stress trough over Turkey. They generally 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 difficult for much less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they produce effective currents. However, they supply air conditioning, low humidity and excellent visibility. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and generally relax during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining function of the Aegean summertime.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is an effective wind tunnel that impacts via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can often be even more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For experienced seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They give optimal conditions for electrifying sailing journeys. For lots of, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is also an all-natural a/c unit that keeps temperature levels awesome and lowers humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching modern vacationers to ancient seafaring customs.
