The meltemi winds, additionally called the Etesian north wind are a special and distinct all-natural sensation linked specifically to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and often reach up 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 generally appear during the summer months between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring harsh sailing problems yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult but gratifying 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 pick a trusted charter company that can provide neighborhood expertise and recommendations.
Vacationers checking out the Aegean during meltemi season should be aware of the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferries. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of methods to delight in the stunning surroundings and sunshine. Simply make certain to comply with the security guidelines listed below and put on proper garments. Likewise, avoid entering the water during optimal wind hours. This will certainly assist you avoid getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or reefs.
Frequency
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 but it also offers difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June through September yet they have actually been known to begin a month previously in May. Thankfully, seasoned seafarers understand what to expect and can intend appropriately.
The meltemi usually picks up in the mid-day, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and then discolors by sundown. However, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can produce nasty downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason that a great number of windmills enhance the hills of these islands and the islanders are skilled in maintaining their villages shielded by developing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are amazing dry winds that toughen up the hot summer sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a peak in July and August. They are generally 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 things to do in exuma bahamas high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a low stress trough over Turkey. They commonly blow from northeast in the northern Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and then north in the main Aegean.
These strong katabatic winds can be tough for less seasoned sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop powerful currents. Nonetheless, they provide air conditioning, low moisture and excellent exposure. They are toughest during the mid-day and usually cool down in the evening. The meltemi wind is a specifying function of the Aegean summer season.
Duration
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are brought on by the interaction between high pressure systems over Greece and reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that strikes through the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days at once, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet can in some cases be also stronger reaching up to 7 or 8.
For seasoned sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They give perfect problems for exhilarating sailing experiences. For several, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be tough, it is also a natural ac unit that keeps temperature levels cool and decreases moisture. The solid northern wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise forms the landscape and way of living of the islanders, connecting contemporary vacationers to ancient seafaring customs.
