The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique natural sensation linked exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and typically reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is enhanced by the region's numerous islands, which function as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It generally picks up strength throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear during the summer months between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme cruising problems yet it additionally brings cooling, low humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult yet fulfilling for seasoned sailors. Prep work is key to browsing in these problems, consisting of examining weather prediction and intending courses very carefully. It's additionally crucial to select a credible charter business that can supply regional knowledge and advice.
Tourists going to the Aegean during meltemi period need to understand the capacity for rough seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of ways to appreciate the attractive scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to comply with the safety standards listed below and use suitable clothes. Also, stay clear of getting in the water throughout height wind hours. This will help you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on covert rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which indicates 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring function 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 wind for seafarers but it likewise presents obstacles.
The etesian winds blow from June via September but they have been recognized to start a month previously in May. The good news is, experienced seafarers know what to expect and can prepare as necessary.
The meltemi usually picks up in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards fades by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can create nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a good number of windmills embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their towns protected by building stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that toughen up the hot summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a height in July and August. They are generally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind intensity).
They are created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a reduced pressure trough over Turkey. They typically blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and afterwards north in the central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be challenging for less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they produce powerful currents. However, they give cooling, low humidity and good presence. They are best throughout the afternoon and generally calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute of the Aegean summertime.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The result 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 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 electrifying sailing journeys. For numerous, this is the main factor they choose to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is additionally an all-natural ac unit that keeps temperatures all-inclusive yacht vacations amazing and minimizes humidity. The strong north wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, connecting contemporary travelers to old seafaring traditions.
