The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique all-natural phenomenon linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and frequently reach up to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is amplified by the region's several islands, which serve as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It usually grabs stamina throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally show up throughout the summer months in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing conditions but it likewise brings air conditioning, low humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough but satisfying for seasoned sailors. Prep work is essential to browsing in these problems, including inspecting weather prediction and planning paths meticulously. It's likewise crucial to pick a reliable charter business that can supply neighborhood knowledge and guidance.
Vacationers seeing the Aegean during meltemi season ought to understand the possibility for rough seas and strong currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the beautiful scenery and sunshine. Simply make sure to comply with the safety guidelines below and use appropriate clothes. Likewise, prevent getting in the water throughout peak wind hours. This will help you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a repeating function of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north 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 yet it also provides obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June through September however they have actually been known to start a month earlier in May. Luckily, skilled sailors understand what to expect and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi usually picks up in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and after that fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to persist throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can create nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason an excellent variety of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are experienced in keeping their villages secured by constructing rock wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool dry winds that temper the hot summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a height in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a rating system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies 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 less knowledgeable seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nevertheless, they give cooling, low moisture and good exposure. They are toughest during the mid-day and usually cool down at night. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summertime.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that impacts via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a couple of days at once, peaking in July and sailing charters August. They typically reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can often be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For experienced sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply excellent conditions for thrilling cruising journeys. For many, this is the main reason they select to cruise the Aegean throughout the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is additionally an all-natural a/c unit that maintains temperature levels great and lowers moisture. The solid north wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of living of the islanders, attaching modern-day vacationers to old seafaring practices.
