The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and distinct natural sensation connected solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and often rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is amplified by the region's several islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It usually gets toughness throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear during the summer season in between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe cruising problems but it likewise brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging however satisfying for skilled seafarers. Prep work is key to navigating in these conditions, including inspecting weather report and preparing courses meticulously. It's also important to choose a credible charter firm that can give neighborhood expertise and advice.
Travelers going to the Aegean throughout meltemi period must understand the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of means to take pleasure in the attractive views and sunlight. Simply make certain to adhere to the safety and security standards below and use suitable clothes. Also, prevent entering the water during peak wind hours. This will help you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which indicates 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting function of summertime in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are influenced by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers however it likewise provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June through September but they have been recognized to begin a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled sailors know what to expect and can plan as necessary.
The meltemi typically grabs in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and then discolors by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can produce nasty downslope sailing yacht rental gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good variety of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their villages protected by constructing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are amazing dry winds that toughen up the warm 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 typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They usually 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 tough for less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer air conditioning, low humidity and excellent visibility. They are best during the mid-day and usually calm down at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature of the Aegean summertime.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The result is an effective wind tunnel that blows via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a few days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can in some cases be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply perfect problems for exciting cruising journeys. For numerous, this is the major reason they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is likewise an all-natural a/c unit that maintains temperature levels awesome and minimizes moisture. The solid northern breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, connecting modern tourists to old seafaring practices.
