The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and distinctive natural phenomenon connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, dry, and typically rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the region's many islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It generally picks up strength during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear during the summer months between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh cruising problems yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but rewarding for seasoned sailors. Prep work is vital to browsing in these problems, consisting of inspecting weather report and preparing routes thoroughly. It's also important to pick a reputable charter company that can give neighborhood expertise and recommendations.
Vacationers going to the Aegean during meltemi season need to recognize the capacity for rough seas and strong currents, which can disrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nevertheless, there are still lots of ways to enjoy the attractive views and sunlight. Just be sure to adhere to the security guidelines below and put on proper garments. Likewise, avoid getting in the water throughout top wind hours. This will aid you prevent getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a persisting feature of summer in the Aegean. These solid northern winds are influenced by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors yet it likewise presents challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June with September but they have actually been understood to start a month previously in May. Luckily, seasoned seafarers understand what to expect and can intend appropriately.
The meltemi typically grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, and after that fades by sundown. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can produce nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a great number of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their villages shielded by developing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are trendy 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 top in July and August. They are generally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They typically blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be tough for less knowledgeable sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nevertheless, they provide air conditioning, low humidity and excellent exposure. They are toughest during the mid-day and generally cool 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 interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that strikes through the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a few days at once, peaking in July and August. They normally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can sometimes be even more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply ideal conditions for electrifying sailing experiences. For many, this is the primary factor they choose to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is additionally a natural a/c that maintains temperatures great and lowers humidity. The solid north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a heaven for yacht charter broker windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching modern tourists to old seafaring traditions.
