The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique natural phenomenon linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is amplified by the area's numerous islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its speed. It commonly gets toughness during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally show up during the summer season in between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems but it likewise brings air conditioning, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough however rewarding for experienced seafarers. Prep work is key to navigating in these problems, consisting of inspecting weather prediction and planning courses meticulously. It's additionally important to select a credible charter firm that can supply regional understanding and recommendations.
Travelers visiting the Aegean throughout 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 lots of means to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and sunshine. Just make sure to adhere to the safety and security guidelines below and use appropriate apparel. Likewise, stay clear of entering the water throughout peak wind hours. This will assist you prevent obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These strong north winds are affected by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers yet it additionally presents challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June through September however they have been understood to begin a month previously in May. Luckily, experienced seafarers understand what to expect and can plan appropriately.
The meltemi typically gets in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and after that fades by sundown. However, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can produce nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a good number of windmills embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in maintaining their villages protected by building stone wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that temper the hot summer sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a peak in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low pressure trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be hard for much less knowledgeable seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they produce effective currents. Nevertheless, they supply air conditioning, reduced moisture and great exposure. They sailboat charter are best throughout the afternoon and generally calm down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is an effective wind tunnel that impacts via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a few days at a time, peaking in July and August. They normally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can sometimes be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For seasoned seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply optimal conditions for exhilarating cruising journeys. For lots of, this is the primary reason they pick to cruise the Aegean during the summer.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is additionally an all-natural air conditioning unit that maintains temperatures trendy and minimizes humidity. The solid north wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, connecting contemporary tourists to ancient seafaring customs.
