The meltemi winds, also called the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and unique natural sensation linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and often reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is enhanced by the area's numerous islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It generally grabs strength throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear throughout the summer months between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh cruising conditions yet it also brings air conditioning, low humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult but fulfilling for experienced seafarers. Preparation is crucial to navigating in these conditions, consisting of checking weather report and intending courses very carefully. It's also vital to select a trusted charter company that can give regional expertise and recommendations.
Tourists checking out the Aegean during meltemi period need to recognize the potential for rough seas and strong currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still lots of means to take pleasure in the beautiful views and sunlight. Simply be sure to follow the security standards below and put on suitable garments. Likewise, avoid entering the water throughout height wind hours. This will certainly aid you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on hidden rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring attribute of summertime in the Aegean. These solid northern 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 however they have been known to begin a month earlier in May. Luckily, experienced sailors recognize what to anticipate and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi normally gets in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and afterwards discolors by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to persist throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can develop unpleasant downslope gusts in yacht charters near me 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 embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in keeping their towns protected by constructing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are trendy dry winds that toughen up 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 usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a rating system of wind intensity).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low pressure trough over Turkey. They normally blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be difficult for much less skilled sailors and can make swimming and water sports testing as they create effective currents. Nevertheless, they give air conditioning, low humidity and excellent visibility. They are toughest during the afternoon and generally cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The result is a powerful wind tunnel that impacts with the southern 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 however can in some cases be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For seasoned sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer perfect conditions for thrilling sailing experiences. For lots of, this is the primary factor they pick to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is also a natural air conditioning unit that maintains temperatures great and reduces humidity. The solid northern breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching modern tourists to old seafaring practices.
