The meltemi winds, additionally referred to as the Etesian north wind are an unique and unique all-natural phenomenon connected 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 magnified by the area's several islands, which work as all-natural funnels and increase its rate. It commonly grabs strength throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually show up throughout the summertime in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh cruising problems yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging but rewarding for seasoned sailors. Prep work is vital to browsing in these problems, consisting of inspecting weather report and preparing paths thoroughly. It's also important to choose a respectable charter business that can offer local knowledge and advice.
Tourists seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to know the potential for rough seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferries. However, there are still a lot of means to enjoy the lovely landscapes and sunlight. Simply make certain to comply with the safety guidelines listed below and put on proper garments. Likewise, avoid entering the water during optimal wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid obtaining dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which means 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a persisting function of summer 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 wind for sailors however it likewise presents obstacles.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have actually been understood to start a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled sailors know what to anticipate and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi typically grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and after that fades by sunset. However, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the entire Aegean and can create horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a great number of windmills decorate capitals of these islands and the islanders are competent in keeping their towns secured by developing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are trendy dry winds that temper the warm summertime 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 usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a score system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low 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 difficult for less all yachting bahamas experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sports testing as they create effective currents. Nevertheless, they give cooling, reduced humidity and good exposure. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and typically relax at night. The meltemi wind is a specifying feature 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 an effective wind tunnel that blows with the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a couple of days each time, coming to a head in July and August. They typically reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can in some cases be also more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They give optimal problems for exciting cruising journeys. For numerous, this is the major reason they select to cruise the Aegean during the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is also an all-natural air conditioning unit that maintains temperature levels awesome and minimizes moisture. The strong north wind makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, linking modern-day travelers to ancient seafaring practices.
