The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinctive natural sensation connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, dry, and typically reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is intensified by the region's numerous islands, which function as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It generally gets stamina during the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally show up during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe sailing conditions however it likewise brings air conditioning, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but gratifying for seasoned sailors. Preparation is essential to navigating in these conditions, including checking weather forecasts and preparing paths thoroughly. It's also essential to select a trustworthy charter firm that can provide neighborhood expertise and suggestions.
Visitors seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period must know the capacity for rough seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nevertheless, there are still lots of methods to delight in the gorgeous scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to follow the safety standards listed below and use appropriate clothing. Also, prevent getting in the water during height wind hours. This will certainly assist you prevent getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring attribute of summertime 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 seafarers however it likewise provides obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June via September yet they have actually been understood to begin a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled sailors know what to anticipate and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi normally gets in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and then fades by sunset. However, it is not uncommon for it to persist throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can develop awful 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 variety of windmills decorate sail british virgin islands capitals of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in maintaining their towns safeguarded by developing rock wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are cool 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 created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They normally 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 difficult for much less seasoned seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. Nevertheless, they provide cooling, low moisture and excellent exposure. They are greatest during the mid-day and normally relax in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute 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 low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that impacts via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a few days at a time, peaking in July and August. They typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can in some cases be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a present. They offer ideal problems for exciting sailing experiences. For numerous, this is the major factor they select to cruise the Aegean during the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise a natural air conditioner that maintains temperatures trendy and lowers moisture. The strong northern breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching modern-day tourists to old seafaring practices.
