The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a special and distinct all-natural sensation linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and typically reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is magnified by the area's several islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It typically picks up strength during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally appear throughout the summer months in between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh cruising conditions yet it also brings air conditioning, low moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging yet gratifying for skilled sailors. Prep work is crucial to browsing in these conditions, consisting of inspecting weather forecasts and preparing routes very carefully. It's also crucial to choose a credible charter company that can give local understanding and advice.
Vacationers visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to recognize the potential for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of ways to take pleasure in the beautiful landscapes and sunlight. Just make sure to adhere to the safety standards listed below and wear proper apparel. Likewise, prevent going into the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly aid you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on concealed rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which indicates '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 obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June via September but they have been known to start a month earlier in May. Fortunately, seasoned sailors know what to anticipate and can intend yacht rental as necessary.
The meltemi commonly grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can develop horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a great number of windmills decorate the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in keeping their villages safeguarded by developing stone walls.
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 a height in July and August. They are generally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a score system of wind intensity).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They commonly 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 difficult for less experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they create effective currents. Nonetheless, they give air conditioning, low humidity and good presence. They are toughest during the afternoon and typically calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summertime.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The result is an effective wind tunnel that impacts with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a couple of days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can occasionally be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They provide excellent problems for exhilarating cruising experiences. For several, this is the primary reason they select to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is additionally an all-natural ac unit that keeps temperature levels amazing and lowers moisture. The solid north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching modern-day vacationers to ancient seafaring practices.
