The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are a special and distinctive all-natural sensation connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and frequently reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is intensified by the area's numerous islands, which work as all-natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It commonly gets stamina during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally show up during the summertime between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing conditions yet it additionally brings air conditioning, low humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but rewarding for experienced sailors. Prep work is vital to browsing in these problems, consisting of checking weather report and planning routes thoroughly. It's also crucial to pick a credible charter firm that can offer regional expertise and guidance.
Travelers checking out the Aegean throughout meltemi season must know the possibility for rough seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still lots of ways to enjoy the gorgeous scenery and sunshine. Just make sure to comply with the security guidelines listed below and put on appropriate clothing. Likewise, stay clear of entering the water during height wind hours. This will certainly aid you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summer in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are influenced by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers but it also provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September yet they have been known to begin a month earlier in May. The good news is, seasoned seafarers understand what to anticipate and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi normally gets in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and afterwards fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can develop unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a good variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are proficient in maintaining their towns safeguarded by developing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are cool dry winds that toughen up 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 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 produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a low pressure trough over Turkey. They typically blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be difficult for much less experienced sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they develop effective currents. Nevertheless, they offer air conditioning, reduced humidity and good visibility. They are strongest during the mid-day and usually cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature of the Aegean summertime.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows with the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a few days each time, peaking in July and August. They normally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can sometimes be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They give optimal all inclusive yacht vacations problems for electrifying cruising journeys. For many, this is the main factor they select to sail the Aegean during the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is also a natural air conditioning unit that keeps temperatures cool and reduces moisture. The solid north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of living of the islanders, linking modern-day tourists to ancient seafaring traditions.
