The meltemi winds, additionally known as the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinctive natural phenomenon connected solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and typically reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is enhanced by the area's numerous islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its rate. It usually grabs strength throughout the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and normally show up during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions but it likewise brings air conditioning, reduced humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be tough but fulfilling for seasoned sailors. Preparation is essential to browsing in these problems, consisting of examining weather report and intending courses carefully. It's also essential to choose a reputable charter firm that can give neighborhood understanding and suggestions.
Travelers going to the Aegean during meltemi season should recognize the potential for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferries. Nonetheless, there are still plenty of methods to enjoy the lovely scenery and sunlight. Simply make sure to adhere to the safety guidelines listed below and wear proper clothing. Likewise, stay clear of getting in the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will help you prevent obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which suggests 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a recurring feature of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north winds are affected by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for sailors but it also provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June via September yet they have actually been recognized to begin a month previously in May. The good news is, skilled seafarers recognize what to anticipate and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi commonly grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, 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 develop horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a great number of windmills decorate the hills of these islands and the islanders are experienced in keeping their towns shielded by constructing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome dry winds that toughen up the warm summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a top in July and August. They are usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a rating system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and afterwards 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. Nonetheless, they supply cooling, low moisture and excellent exposure. They are toughest throughout the mid-day and usually relax in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
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 an effective wind tunnel that impacts via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can sometimes be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer excellent problems for exhilarating cruising experiences. For several, this is the primary reason they pick to sail all inclusive catamaran charter the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise an all-natural air conditioning system that keeps temperature levels amazing and reduces moisture. The strong north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching contemporary vacationers to ancient seafaring practices.
