The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and distinctive natural phenomenon connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and typically rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is magnified by the area'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, especially 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 carefully. It's also vital to pick a reputable charter company that can give neighborhood understanding and recommendations.
Vacationers going to the Aegean during meltemi season need to recognize the possibility 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 safety and security standards below and wear ideal garments. Likewise, avoid entering the water throughout height wind hours. This will help you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by strong currents or being caught on hidden rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a persisting function of summer in the Aegean. These solid north winds are influenced by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for sailors but it additionally provides challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June with September but they have actually been understood to start a month previously in May. Luckily, experienced seafarers understand what to expect and can intend appropriately.
The meltemi generally picks meltemi winds up in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and after that fades by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can create horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good variety of windmills embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in keeping their towns safeguarded by constructing rock walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are awesome completely dry winds that solidify the warm summertime sun 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 strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low stress trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for less experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer air conditioning, low moisture and good presence. They are strongest throughout the afternoon and usually calm down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining function of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced 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 typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale however 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 season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is additionally an all-natural a/c that maintains temperatures great and reduces humidity. The solid north 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.
