The meltemi winds, also known as the Etesian north wind are a special and unique all-natural phenomenon linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and often rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is intensified by the area's many islands, which act as natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It generally picks up strength during the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically appear during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing conditions but it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult however gratifying for experienced sailors. Preparation is key to navigating in these problems, consisting of examining weather prediction and preparing paths very carefully. It's likewise essential to choose a trusted charter company that can provide local expertise and suggestions.
Travelers visiting the Aegean during meltemi period need to recognize the possibility for rough seas and strong currents, which can disrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nevertheless, there are still lots of ways to enjoy the attractive views and sunlight. Just be sure to adhere to the safety and security standards below and wear ideal garments. Likewise, avoid entering the water throughout height wind hours. This will help you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by strong currents or being caught on hidden rocks or coral reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a reoccuring function of summer in the Aegean. These strong north winds are influenced by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers but it additionally provides difficulties.
The etesian winds blow from June via September however they have been recognized to start a month earlier in May. The good news is, experienced sailors recognize what to anticipate and can prepare accordingly.
The meltemi commonly gets in the afternoon, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its best, and then discolors by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the evening. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can develop unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why an excellent number of windmills decorate capitals of these islands and the islanders are experienced in maintaining their villages protected by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are cool dry winds that solidify the hot summer season sun of Greece and its islands. They all-inclusive yacht charters cost 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 range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They generally 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 hard for less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nonetheless, they offer air conditioning, low moisture and good presence. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and normally calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining function 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 through the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days at a time, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range however can occasionally be even stronger reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply ideal conditions for electrifying sailing experiences. For several, this is the main factor they choose to sail the Aegean throughout the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is additionally a natural a/c that maintains temperatures amazing and lowers humidity. The solid north breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching modern tourists to old seafaring traditions.
