The meltemi winds, also 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 often rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is amplified by the region's many islands, which serve as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It commonly grabs toughness throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear throughout the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring severe sailing conditions but it also brings cooling, low humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult however satisfying for experienced seafarers. Preparation is essential to navigating in these conditions, including checking weather forecasts and planning routes carefully. It's additionally vital to pick a trustworthy charter firm that can give neighborhood expertise and suggestions.
Visitors checking out the Aegean throughout meltemi season ought to be aware of the capacity for harsh seas and strong currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still plenty of methods to appreciate the stunning views and sunshine. Simply be sure to comply with the safety and security guidelines listed below and put on suitable apparel. Also, prevent getting in the water during height wind hours. This will certainly help you stay clear of getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on concealed rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a repeating attribute of summer in the Aegean. These strong north winds are affected by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers but it likewise provides obstacles.
The etesian winds blow from June through September however they have actually been recognized to start a month earlier in May. Luckily, seasoned sailors recognize what to anticipate and can intend as necessary.
The meltemi commonly grabs in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards discolors by sundown. Nonetheless, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can create nasty 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 secured by developing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are amazing dry winds that temper the hot summer 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 scale is a rating system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low pressure trough over Turkey. They typically 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 seafarers and can ferry from us virgin islands to british virgin islands make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they create effective currents. However, they give air conditioning, low humidity and great visibility. They are strongest throughout the afternoon and generally cool down during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a few days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can in some cases be also more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They give optimal conditions for exciting cruising journeys. For numerous, this is the major reason they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is likewise an all-natural a/c unit that maintains temperatures great and reduces moisture. The strong northern wind 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 traditions.
