The meltemi winds, likewise called the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and distinctive all-natural phenomenon linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and commonly rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the region's several islands, which function as natural funnels and increase its speed. It usually grabs stamina during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear throughout the summer season in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough cruising conditions yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult however fulfilling for seasoned sailors. Preparation is vital to browsing in these problems, including checking weather report and preparing paths meticulously. It's additionally important to pick a respectable charter business that can offer local expertise and recommendations.
Visitors seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period need to recognize the possibility for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still lots of methods to take pleasure in the stunning landscapes and sunshine. Just make sure to adhere to the security guidelines below and use suitable clothes. Likewise, prevent entering the water during peak wind hours. This will help you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on covert rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring feature of summer season in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are affected by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers however it likewise presents challenges.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have been recognized to begin a month previously in May. Luckily, experienced sailors recognize what to anticipate and can intend accordingly.
The meltemi generally picks up in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and after that discolors by sunset. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to persist throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can develop awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why an excellent variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their towns shielded by building stone wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are great dry winds that temper the warm summertime 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 typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a low 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 central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for much less skilled seafarers and can airbnb for yachts make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they create effective currents. However, they provide air conditioning, reduced humidity and great presence. They are strongest during the mid-day and commonly cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining function of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The result is an effective wind tunnel that blows via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a couple of days at a time, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can in some cases be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a present. They provide excellent problems for exhilarating cruising adventures. For several, this is the primary factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is also an all-natural air conditioner that maintains temperatures great and reduces humidity. The strong northern breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, attaching modern vacationers to old seafaring traditions.
