The meltemi winds, also referred to as the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and distinct natural phenomenon connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, dry, and often rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is intensified by the region's numerous islands, which act as all-natural funnels and increase its speed. It normally grabs toughness during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up during the summertime in between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions but it also brings cooling, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult however satisfying for experienced seafarers. Preparation is essential to navigating in these conditions, including examining weather forecasts and intending courses meticulously. It's likewise important to select a trusted charter firm that can offer neighborhood understanding and suggestions.
Travelers seeing the Aegean during meltemi period must recognize the possibility for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. However, there are still lots of methods to appreciate the beautiful surroundings and sunlight. Simply make certain to adhere to the safety guidelines below and use proper apparel. Also, avoid going into the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly aid you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These solid north winds are affected by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers yet it additionally offers challenges.
The etesian winds blow from June through September but they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. The good news is, skilled sailors recognize what to expect and can prepare accordingly.
The meltemi usually grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and then fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can produce unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a good variety of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in maintaining their villages safeguarded by building stone wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are great completely dry winds that solidify the hot summer sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with an optimal in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are produced 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 then north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be tough for much less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop powerful currents. However, they provide air conditioning, low humidity and excellent exposure. They are greatest during the mid-day and usually calm down at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summer.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that impacts with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a couple of days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can sometimes be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a present. They provide excellent conditions for exhilarating cruising adventures. For several, this is the primary factor they select to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is also an all-natural a/c unit that keeps temperature levels awesome and lowers humidity. The solid northern wind makes Paros and other Greek sailing location islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching modern vacationers to ancient seafaring customs.
