The meltemi winds, also called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique all-natural phenomenon linked solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, dry, and usually rise to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the area's many islands, which function as natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It usually picks up stamina throughout the mid-day and wanes by nighttime.
Climate
The meltemi winds are seasonal and usually appear during the summer months between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme cruising problems yet it additionally brings air conditioning, reduced moisture and clear skies.
Sailing in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be difficult however fulfilling for skilled seafarers. Preparation is key to navigating in these conditions, including checking weather report and planning paths very carefully. It's likewise important to select a credible charter company that can give regional expertise and recommendations.
Tourists going to the Aegean during meltemi season should know the possibility for harsh seas and solid currents, which can disrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of ways to delight in the lovely views and sunshine. Just make sure to follow the safety guidelines below and use proper apparel. Also, avoid entering the water during top wind hours. This will assist you prevent 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 repeating function of summertime in the Aegean. These strong northern winds are influenced by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for sailors however it likewise provides difficulties.
The etesian winds strike from June with September however they have actually been understood to begin a month earlier in May. Luckily, experienced sailors understand what to expect and can prepare appropriately.
The meltemi usually gets in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its greatest, and then fades by sundown. However, it is not unusual for it to persist throughout the evening. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can create unpleasant downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good variety of windmills decorate the hills of these islands and the islanders are proficient in maintaining their towns secured by developing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are trendy completely dry winds that solidify the hot summer 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 generally 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can reach up to 7 (Beaufort scale is a rating system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low stress trough over Turkey. They commonly 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 hard for much less skilled sailors and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they create effective currents. Nonetheless, they supply cooling, reduced moisture and good visibility. They are toughest during the afternoon and commonly relax in the evening. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute of the Aegean summertime.
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 result is an effective wind tunnel that blows via the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds generally last for a couple of days each time, peaking in July and August. They generally reach 4 to 5 on all inclusive yacht charters bahamas the Beaufort scale yet can in some cases be also stronger reaching up to 7 or 8.
For knowledgeable sailors, meltemi winds are a present. They offer perfect problems for exciting cruising experiences. For many, this is the major reason they pick to sail the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is also an all-natural a/c unit that keeps temperatures great and reduces humidity. The strong north breeze makes Paros and other Greek islands a heaven for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It likewise shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, attaching contemporary travelers to old seafaring traditions.
