The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and distinct all-natural sensation connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, dry, and frequently rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is magnified by the area's several islands, which work as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It commonly picks up stamina during the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally show up during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe cruising problems but it additionally brings cooling, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be tough but rewarding for seasoned seafarers. Preparation is essential to navigating in these conditions, consisting of inspecting weather forecasts and intending routes meticulously. It's likewise important to pick a respectable charter company that can supply local understanding and advice.
Vacationers visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to recognize the capacity for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still lots of methods to delight in the attractive scenery and sunlight. Just be sure to comply with the security standards listed below and put on appropriate clothes. Likewise, avoid getting in the water throughout peak wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on hidden rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These solid northern winds are influenced by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers yet it also provides challenges.
The etesian winds blow from June through September but they have been known to start a month earlier in May. Thankfully, seasoned sailors know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
The meltemi generally gets in the yacht rental afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and then fades by sundown. Nonetheless, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can create awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a great variety of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are competent in maintaining their villages protected by building rock wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool dry winds that temper the hot summer season sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a height in July and August. They are typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind intensity).
They are created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be challenging for less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. Nevertheless, they provide air conditioning, reduced humidity and good presence. They are strongest during the mid-day and generally calm down at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The result is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a few days each time, coming to a head in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale however can in some cases be also more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They supply perfect problems 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 difficult, it is additionally a natural a/c that maintains temperatures great and reduces moisture. The strong north breeze makes Paros and various 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.
