The meltemi winds, also referred to as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique natural phenomenon connected solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is magnified by the area's many islands, which serve as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It typically picks up stamina throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up throughout the summertime in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe sailing conditions however it additionally brings cooling, low moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough yet rewarding for seasoned sailors. Preparation is crucial to browsing in these problems, consisting of examining weather report and planning paths very carefully. It's additionally vital to pick a trusted charter business that can supply regional expertise and suggestions.
Tourists visiting the Aegean during meltemi season should know the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of ways to enjoy the beautiful scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to comply with the safety standards listed below and use suitable clothing. Also, stay clear of going into the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly aid you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by strong currents or being caught on hidden rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which implies '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 sailors yet it likewise presents obstacles.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have actually been known to begin a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled seafarers know what to anticipate and can plan as necessary.
The meltemi normally picks up in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to persist 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 high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason an excellent variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in maintaining their yacht preference sheet villages shielded by developing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are trendy completely dry winds that temper the warm summertime sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a top in July and August. They are generally 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 reduced pressure trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they develop effective currents. Nonetheless, they offer cooling, reduced humidity and excellent exposure. They are toughest during the mid-day and usually calm down at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is an effective wind tunnel that blows through the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a few days at once, coming to a head in July and August. They typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can in some cases be even more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For experienced sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They give ideal conditions for thrilling cruising journeys. For several, this is the main reason they choose to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is likewise an all-natural ac system that keeps temperatures trendy and lowers humidity. The strong northern breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of living of the islanders, attaching modern-day travelers to ancient seafaring traditions.
