The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinctive natural sensation connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is magnified by the area's several islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It usually gets toughness throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear during the summer season between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems yet it likewise brings cooling, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but fulfilling for skilled seafarers. Prep work is vital to browsing in these problems, including examining weather forecasts and intending paths meticulously. It's likewise important to select a respectable charter company that can supply local expertise and suggestions.
Visitors seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to be aware of the capacity for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferryboats. However, there are still lots of methods to appreciate the beautiful surroundings and sunlight. Simply make certain to follow the safety guidelines below and use proper apparel. Additionally, avoid entering the water during top wind hours. This will certainly aid you stay clear of getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which indicates 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a recurring feature of summertime in the Aegean. These strong north winds are affected by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers yet it additionally offers obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June via September yet they have been known to start a month earlier in May. Fortunately, seasoned sailors understand what to expect and can plan accordingly.
The meltemi generally picks up in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and then fades by sunset. However, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the evening. 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 why a good number of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in keeping their towns secured by developing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome dry winds that toughen up the warm summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a top in July and August. They are usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They normally 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 tough for less experienced sailors and can make swimming and water sports testing as they develop effective currents. Nonetheless, they supply cooling, reduced moisture and great visibility. They are toughest throughout the afternoon and typically cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute of the Aegean summertime.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The result is an effective 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 usually get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can often be even more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They give optimal conditions for thrilling sailing journeys. For numerous, this is the major factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is additionally a natural air conditioning unit that maintains temperature levels amazing and minimizes humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the yacht rental georgia landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching contemporary travelers to old seafaring traditions.
