The meltemi winds, likewise known as the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and unique all-natural phenomenon linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and frequently rise 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 speed. It generally gets stamina during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically appear during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing problems yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but gratifying for seasoned sailors. Preparation is vital to browsing in these problems, consisting of inspecting weather report and preparing paths thoroughly. It's also important to choose a reliable charter company that can provide local expertise and suggestions.
Vacationers checking out the Aegean during meltemi season should be aware of the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to follow the safety standards listed below and use appropriate clothing. Additionally, prevent going into the water during optimal wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which indicates 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a recurring attribute of summertime in the Aegean. These strong 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 however it also presents obstacles.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have been known to begin a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled seafarers know what to anticipate and can prepare accordingly.
The meltemi commonly grabs in the afternoon, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, and then discolors by sundown. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can develop awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason an excellent variety of windmills decorate capitals of these islands and the islanders are competent in keeping their towns protected by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that temper the warm summertime sunlight of Greece and its full moon party bvi 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 rating system of wind strength).
They are created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low stress trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be difficult for much less experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer air conditioning, low moisture and good presence. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and normally calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining function of the Aegean summer.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that impacts through the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a few days at once, peaking in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can in some cases be also more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They give perfect problems for exhilarating cruising journeys. For numerous, this is the primary factor they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is additionally a natural air conditioning system that keeps temperature levels trendy and decreases moisture. The solid northern breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the landscape and way of living of the islanders, connecting contemporary vacationers to old seafaring traditions.
