The meltemi winds, likewise known as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and distinctive all-natural phenomenon linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and often reach up to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is magnified by the region's many islands, which work as all-natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It normally gets strength throughout the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up during the summer months in between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe cruising conditions however it additionally brings cooling, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult yet gratifying for skilled sailors. Prep work is crucial to navigating in these conditions, including checking weather report and planning paths carefully. It's additionally crucial to select a trusted charter business that can provide regional expertise and guidance.
Visitors visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to recognize the potential for rough seas and solid currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still plenty of methods to take pleasure in the beautiful surroundings and sunshine. Simply make certain to follow the security standards listed below and put on ideal clothing. Also, prevent going into the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly help you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which indicates 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These strong north winds are influenced by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors but it also presents difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September but they have actually been recognized to start a month earlier in May. The good news is, experienced sailors understand what to anticipate and can intend accordingly.
The meltemi typically grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and then discolors by sunset. However, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can produce awful downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a good number of windmills embellish capitals of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in keeping their villages safeguarded by developing rock wall yacht charters surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are trendy dry winds that temper the warm 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 normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They normally blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be hard for much less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sports testing as they develop effective currents. However, they give air conditioning, reduced humidity and great presence. They are best throughout the afternoon and commonly calm down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and low pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a few days at once, peaking in July and August. They usually get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can occasionally be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They supply perfect problems for exciting cruising experiences. For many, this is the major reason they pick to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is also an all-natural a/c unit that maintains temperatures amazing and minimizes moisture. The solid north wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, connecting modern-day travelers to old seafaring traditions.
