The meltemi winds, also known as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique natural phenomenon linked exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is enhanced by the area's many islands, which function as natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It generally grabs strength throughout the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear throughout the summer months in between June and September, specifically in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe cruising problems but it likewise brings air conditioning, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult however rewarding for skilled sailors. Preparation is crucial to browsing in these conditions, consisting of examining weather forecasts and preparing courses carefully. It's likewise crucial to pick a respectable charter firm that can provide regional understanding and suggestions.
Tourists going to the Aegean throughout meltemi period should know the capacity for harsh seas and solid currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still lots of means to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and sunlight. Simply make certain to follow the safety guidelines below and use proper garments. Additionally, stay clear of entering the water during peak wind hours. This will assist you prevent obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These strong northern 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 provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September however they have actually been understood to begin a month previously in May. Luckily, experienced seafarers understand what to anticipate and can intend accordingly.
The meltemi usually grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can produce unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good number of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in maintaining their towns secured by developing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are trendy completely dry winds that solidify the hot summer sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with an optimal in July and August. They are generally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low pressure trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be challenging for less experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. Nevertheless, they provide air conditioning, reduced humidity and good presence. They are best during the mid-day and normally relax at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summer.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced stress systems over Turkey. The result is a powerful wind tunnel that blows with the southern Aegean and all-inclusive catamaran charter greece Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a couple of days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can sometimes be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer ideal problems for exciting cruising experiences. For many, this is the primary reason they pick to sail the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise an all-natural ac unit that keeps temperature levels amazing and reduces moisture. The strong north wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching contemporary vacationers to ancient seafaring practices.
