The meltemi winds, also known as the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinctive natural phenomenon connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and commonly reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the region's numerous islands, which function as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It commonly gets stamina throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
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 severe sailing conditions but it likewise brings cooling, low humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging yet rewarding for seasoned seafarers. Prep work is vital to browsing in these conditions, including checking weather forecasts and planning courses carefully. It's additionally vital to pick a reputable charter company that can provide local knowledge and advice.
Tourists seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period need to understand the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to comply with the safety standards listed below and use proper clothes. Also, stay clear of going into the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring 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 yet it likewise provides challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June through September yet they have actually been understood to start a month earlier in May. The good news is, experienced sailors recognize what to anticipate and can plan accordingly.
The meltemi typically grabs in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and after that fades by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can develop awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good number of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are competent in keeping their towns shielded by constructing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are great completely dry winds that solidify the hot summer season 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 typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort range is a yacht rental score system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low pressure trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be tough for less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sports testing as they produce powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer cooling, reduced humidity and excellent exposure. They are strongest throughout the afternoon and commonly relax at night. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summertime.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The result is an effective wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days each time, coming to a head in July and August. They typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can occasionally be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer excellent conditions for electrifying sailing experiences. For many, this is the primary factor they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is also an all-natural ac system that maintains temperatures amazing and lowers humidity. The solid north breeze makes Paros and 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 customs.
