The meltemi winds, also called the Etesian north wind are a special and distinct all-natural phenomenon connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and commonly rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's strength is magnified by the region's several islands, which function as natural funnels and increase its speed. It typically gets stamina throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme sailing problems however it also brings air conditioning, low moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be difficult but rewarding for seasoned seafarers. Prep work is key to browsing in these conditions, consisting of examining weather report and intending paths meticulously. It's likewise vital to select a trustworthy charter business that can give regional expertise and guidance.
Tourists checking out the Aegean throughout meltemi season must be aware of the capacity for harsh seas and solid currents, which can disrupt swimming tasks and public ferryboats. Nevertheless, there are still a lot of ways to take pleasure in the attractive surroundings and sunshine. Simply make certain to comply with the security guidelines below and use ideal clothes. Also, avoid entering the water during peak wind hours. This will aid you stay clear of obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or coral reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which means 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting function of summer season in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are influenced by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for sailors yet it likewise provides challenges.
The etesian winds impact from June via September however they have been understood to start a month earlier in May. Thankfully, seasoned seafarers know what to expect and british virgin islands catamaran rental can intend appropriately.
The meltemi usually picks up in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and after that discolors by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to continue throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the whole Aegean and can produce horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a good variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are competent in keeping their villages shielded by constructing rock wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are cool completely dry winds that solidify the hot 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 range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort range is a score system of wind intensity).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced pressure 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 central Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be challenging for much less skilled sailors and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they create effective currents. Nevertheless, they offer cooling, reduced moisture and great exposure. They are best during the mid-day and normally relax in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining feature of the Aegean summer season.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows via the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds typically last for a couple of days each time, peaking in July and August. They usually get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale but can occasionally be even stronger rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They give suitable conditions for exhilarating sailing journeys. For several, this is the major reason they select to sail the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is likewise a natural air conditioning unit that maintains temperature levels great and reduces moisture. The strong northern wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, linking modern vacationers to ancient seafaring traditions.
