The meltemi winds, likewise known as the Etesian north wind are a special and distinct natural phenomenon linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the area's many islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its rate. It normally picks up toughness during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up throughout the summer months in between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough cruising conditions however it additionally brings cooling, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be tough but gratifying for skilled seafarers. Preparation is essential to browsing in these problems, including inspecting weather prediction and planning paths very carefully. It's additionally important to select a reputable charter business that can supply neighborhood expertise and advice.
Travelers seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi season ought to know the capacity for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming activities and public ferries. However, there are still lots of methods to take pleasure in the attractive scenery and sunshine. Just make sure to comply with the security standards listed below and use proper apparel. Additionally, stay clear of getting in the water throughout peak wind hours. This will help you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating feature of summer in the Aegean. These strong 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 presents challenges.
The etesian winds blow from June through September but they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. Luckily, experienced sailors know what to expect and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi normally gets in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to persist throughout the evening. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can create horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why an excellent number of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in keeping their towns safeguarded by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are great dry winds that solidify the hot summertime sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a peak 3 day yacht charter st barts in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a score system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low stress trough over Turkey. They typically blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for much less experienced sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they produce powerful currents. Nevertheless, they supply cooling, low moisture and good visibility. They are greatest during the afternoon and typically calm down at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute 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 an effective wind tunnel that impacts via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They usually get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can occasionally be also more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They supply optimal problems for exhilarating sailing experiences. For lots of, this is the major factor they choose to sail the Aegean during the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is additionally an all-natural a/c unit that maintains temperature levels trendy and reduces 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 travelers to ancient seafaring traditions.
