The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are an unique and distinct natural phenomenon connected specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and commonly rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is intensified by the region's several islands, which serve as all-natural funnels and accelerate its speed. It typically gets toughness during the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear throughout the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme cruising conditions but it likewise brings cooling, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be tough yet fulfilling for skilled seafarers. Preparation is vital to navigating in these conditions, consisting of examining weather forecasts and planning courses thoroughly. It's also important to pick a trustworthy charter company that can give regional knowledge and advice.
Vacationers visiting the Aegean throughout meltemi period ought to be aware of the capacity for rough seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. However, there are still lots of means to enjoy the beautiful views and sunlight. Simply make certain to comply with the security guidelines below and use appropriate garments. Additionally, avoid getting in the water during peak wind hours. This will certainly aid you prevent getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on hidden rocks or reefs.
Regularity
Meltemi-- which implies 'annual wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summertime in the Aegean. These strong north 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 also provides difficulties.
The etesian winds blow from June with September but they have actually been known to begin a month earlier in May. Fortunately, skilled sailors recognize what to expect and can plan as necessary.
The meltemi usually grabs in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and afterwards fades by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can produce nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason why a great number of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their villages protected by constructing stone wall surfaces.
Intensity
The meltemi winds are trendy dry winds that toughen up the hot summer season sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with an optimal in July and August. They are normally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a ranking system of wind intensity).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a reduced pressure trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and afterwards north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be tough for less knowledgeable sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities testing as they develop powerful currents. Nevertheless, they provide cooling, reduced humidity and great presence. They are strongest throughout the mid-day and generally relax during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining function of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the communication between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure 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 typically get to 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can often be also more powerful reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They offer excellent conditions for exciting cruising journeys. For several, this is the main reason yacht charter georgia they select to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is likewise an all-natural air conditioning unit that keeps temperatures great and lowers moisture. The strong northern breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and way of living of the islanders, attaching modern travelers to ancient seafaring customs.
