The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique natural phenomenon linked exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and often reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is amplified by the area's many islands, which function as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It typically picks up strength during the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally show up during the summer months in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme sailing problems yet it likewise brings air conditioning, low humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging yet rewarding for experienced seafarers. Preparation is crucial to browsing in these conditions, including examining weather report and intending routes meticulously. It's also crucial to pick a respectable charter firm that can provide regional expertise and advice.
Vacationers seeing the Aegean during meltemi season should understand the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still lots of means to enjoy the lovely scenery and sunshine. Just make sure to follow the safety and security standards listed below and wear appropriate clothes. Likewise, prevent getting in the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly aid you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on hidden rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating function of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north winds are affected by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it likewise provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September yet they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. Luckily, skilled sailors know what to expect and can plan appropriately.
The meltemi usually gets in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and after that fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can create unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, meltemi winds and Serifos. It is the reason that a great number of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their towns secured by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome dry winds that toughen up the warm summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a peak in July and August. They are usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range 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 fulfills a reduced pressure trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for much less knowledgeable sailors and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. Nonetheless, they give air conditioning, low moisture and great visibility. They are toughest throughout the mid-day and generally calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a couple of days at once, coming to a head in July and August. They typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can sometimes be also stronger reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer excellent problems for exhilarating cruising adventures. For lots of, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is also a natural a/c unit that keeps temperatures awesome and decreases moisture. The strong northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching modern tourists to ancient seafaring customs.
