The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinct natural phenomenon connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and frequently rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is intensified by the area's many islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its speed. It commonly picks up toughness during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up throughout the summer months between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme cruising problems yet it also brings cooling, low moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough yet rewarding for seasoned seafarers. Prep work is vital to navigating in these problems, consisting of inspecting weather report and intending courses carefully. It's also crucial to pick a trusted charter firm that can supply neighborhood knowledge and guidance.
Visitors visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period need to recognize the possibility for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. However, there are still plenty of ways to take pleasure in the stunning landscapes and sunlight. Simply be sure to comply with the safety standards listed below and put on appropriate clothes. Likewise, stay clear of getting in the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly aid you stay clear of getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which suggests 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating function of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north winds are affected by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it also provides difficulties.
The etesian winds impact from June via September yet they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. The good news is, experienced seafarers understand what to expect and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi normally grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nonetheless, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the whole 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 why a good variety of windmills decorate private yacht charter capitals of these islands and the islanders are skilled in keeping their villages secured by constructing rock wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome completely dry winds that toughen up the hot summer 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 usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a reduced stress 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 solid katabatic winds can be tough for much less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they create powerful currents. However, they provide cooling, low humidity and good visibility. They are toughest throughout the afternoon and typically calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute of the Aegean summertime.
Duration
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 an effective wind tunnel that blows through the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a couple of days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can often be even more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For experienced sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They give excellent conditions for electrifying sailing journeys. For many, this is the main reason they pick to sail the Aegean during the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise an all-natural ac unit that maintains temperature levels awesome and minimizes humidity. The solid north breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, linking modern travelers to old seafaring practices.
