The meltemi winds, likewise known as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique all-natural sensation linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and commonly rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is magnified by the area's numerous islands, which work as natural funnels and increase its speed. It commonly picks up toughness during the mid-day and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear throughout the summer months in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems but it likewise brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult but gratifying for skilled seafarers. Preparation is vital to navigating in these conditions, consisting of inspecting weather prediction and planning courses carefully. It's likewise important to choose a reliable charter business that can give local understanding and suggestions.
Visitors seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period need to be aware of the potential for rough seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferries. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of ways to delight in the lovely scenery and sunshine. Simply make certain to follow the security standards listed below and put on appropriate garments. Additionally, avoid entering 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 reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which indicates 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a repeating function of summertime in the Aegean. These solid north 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 presents difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September however they have been understood to start a month earlier in May. The good news is, experienced sailors know what to anticipate and can plan appropriately.
The meltemi usually grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and afterwards discolors by sunset. Nevertheless, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can produce horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that an excellent number of windmills decorate the hills of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in keeping their villages secured by constructing rock walls.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are awesome dry winds that toughen up the warm summer 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 normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort yacht charter georgia range is a ranking system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They typically blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be tough for less skilled sailors and can make swimming and water sports testing as they produce effective currents. Nevertheless, they give air conditioning, reduced humidity and excellent visibility. They are strongest throughout the mid-day and typically cool down during the night. The meltemi wind is a specifying attribute of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The result is a powerful wind tunnel that strikes with the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds normally last for a few days at once, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can in some cases be also stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They provide ideal problems for thrilling cruising experiences. For lots of, this is the major reason they select to sail the Aegean throughout the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is additionally a natural a/c that keeps temperature levels great and minimizes humidity. The strong north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, linking modern tourists to ancient seafaring practices.
