The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are a special and distinct all-natural phenomenon linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and commonly reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is amplified by the region's many islands, which serve as natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It commonly grabs strength during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically appear throughout the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions however it likewise brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough yet rewarding for seasoned sailors. Preparation is crucial to browsing in these problems, consisting of checking weather forecasts and planning routes thoroughly. It's also essential to choose a respectable charter business that can offer regional knowledge and advice.
Tourists visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period need to recognize the possibility for harsh seas and strong currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still lots of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to follow the safety standards listed below and use suitable clothing. Additionally, prevent going into the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which suggests 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a repeating feature of summer season in the Aegean. These solid northern winds are affected by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers but it additionally provides challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June with September yet they have actually been known to begin a month earlier in May. The good news is, experienced sailors understand what to expect and can intend appropriately.
The meltemi normally grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, and after that fades by sunset. However, it is not uncommon for it to persist throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can develop awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good number of windmills decorate the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in keeping their towns shielded by constructing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome dry winds that temper the warm summer season sunlight 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 scale yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is all inclusive yacht charters a ranking system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low pressure trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and afterwards north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be difficult for much less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. However, they offer air conditioning, reduced humidity and excellent presence. They are best during the afternoon and commonly cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few days at once, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can in some cases be even more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They give optimal conditions for electrifying sailing journeys. For lots of, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise an all-natural ac unit that keeps temperatures awesome and minimizes humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, connecting contemporary travelers to old seafaring traditions.
