The meltemi winds, also called the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinct natural phenomenon connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and commonly rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's intensity is intensified by the area's numerous islands, which act as all-natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It commonly gets strength during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally show up during the summertime in between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems but it likewise brings cooling, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be challenging however fulfilling for experienced seafarers. Prep work is crucial to navigating in these conditions, consisting of checking weather report and intending routes very carefully. It's additionally essential to select a reputable charter business that can give local knowledge and recommendations.
Visitors going to the Aegean throughout meltemi period should know the possibility for harsh seas and strong currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still plenty of ways to delight in the lovely views and sunshine. Just make sure to adhere to the safety guidelines below and use ideal clothing. Also, prevent going into the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly help you prevent obtaining dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring attribute of summertime 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 breeze for seafarers but it likewise offers challenges.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have been known to start a month previously in May. Luckily, skilled sailors understand what to anticipate and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi normally 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 create unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a good variety of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in maintaining their towns safeguarded by developing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that toughen up the warm summertime 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 typically 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 satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be hard for much less skilled sailors and can make swimming and water sports testing as they produce powerful currents. However, they offer cooling, low humidity and great exposure. They are best during the mid-day and commonly cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summer.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is an effective wind tunnel that impacts with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days each time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet can sometimes be also stronger reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply excellent problems for thrilling sailing journeys. For numerous, this is the major factor they select to cruise the Aegean during the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is all inclusive yacht charters caribbean additionally an all-natural air conditioner that maintains temperatures cool and lowers humidity. The solid north wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching modern-day travelers to old seafaring traditions.
