The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and distinct natural phenomenon linked exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and typically rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is amplified by the area's many islands, which function as natural funnels and increase its speed. It commonly gets strength throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally show up during the summer months in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions but it likewise brings cooling, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be challenging however fulfilling for seasoned seafarers. Preparation is crucial to browsing in these conditions, including examining weather report and preparing paths thoroughly. It's likewise essential to choose a trustworthy charter company that can give local understanding and guidance.
Visitors checking out the Aegean during meltemi period should know the capacity for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of means to take pleasure in the lovely landscapes and sunlight. Just make sure to comply with the safety guidelines listed below and put on proper clothes. Also, avoid entering the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly aid you prevent getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which indicates 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating function of summer in the Aegean. These solid northern winds are influenced by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it additionally provides difficulties.
The etesian winds blow from June via September yet they have been recognized to begin a month previously in May. Thankfully, seasoned seafarers understand what to expect and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi commonly gets in the afternoon, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and afterwards fades by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can produce nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a great variety of windmills decorate capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in keeping their towns safeguarded by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are amazing completely dry winds that solidify the warm summer season 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 range is a rating system of wind strength).
They are created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They generally blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be challenging for less seasoned sailors and can make airbnb yacht rental swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they produce powerful currents. Nevertheless, they supply air conditioning, reduced moisture and good visibility. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and normally calm down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that strikes through the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few days at once, peaking in July and August. They generally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can often be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They offer perfect conditions for exhilarating cruising journeys. For lots of, this is the primary reason they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is likewise an all-natural air conditioning unit that keeps temperatures awesome and decreases humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, connecting contemporary tourists to old seafaring practices.
