The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique all-natural sensation connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and typically rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the area's many islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its speed. It commonly gets strength during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally appear throughout the summer season between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme sailing problems but it additionally brings cooling, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult yet rewarding for seasoned seafarers. Prep work is key to browsing in these conditions, including checking weather forecasts and preparing routes meticulously. It's additionally important to choose a trusted charter business that can offer local knowledge and guidance.
Travelers going to the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to know the potential for rough seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferries. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of methods to delight in the stunning scenery and sunlight. Just be sure to adhere to the security standards below and wear suitable clothing. Likewise, avoid getting in the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly assist you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by strong currents or being caught on hidden rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a recurring feature of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north winds are influenced by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for sailors but it also presents difficulties.
The etesian winds blow from June with September but they have actually been understood to begin a month earlier in May. Luckily, experienced seafarers know what to anticipate and can plan appropriately.
The meltemi normally grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and afterwards fades by sundown. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can develop nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a great variety of windmills embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are experienced in keeping their towns shielded by constructing rock walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that temper the warm summer 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 typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills 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 create powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer cooling, reduced humidity and good exposure. They are toughest during the afternoon and usually cool down at night. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The result is a powerful wind tunnel that strikes through the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds normally last for a couple of days at a time, peaking in July and August. They usually reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet can sometimes be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For experienced seafarers, meltemi winds are a present. They supply excellent problems for thrilling cruising adventures. For several, this is the main factor they choose to sail the Aegean throughout the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is also a natural air conditioning system that keeps temperatures awesome and lowers humidity. The strong north breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching contemporary tourists yacht charters to ancient seafaring traditions.
