The meltemi winds, likewise known as the Etesian north wind are an one-of-a-kind and distinct natural phenomenon connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and frequently rise to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is amplified by the region'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 cruising 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 routes thoroughly. It's also important to choose a reliable charter company that can provide local knowledge and suggestions.
Visitors seeing the Aegean throughout meltemi season ought to be aware of the potential for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming tasks and public ferries. However, there are still plenty of means to appreciate the lovely landscapes and sunshine. Just be sure to adhere to the security guidelines below and put on proper clothes. Also, avoid getting in the water throughout top wind hours. This will aid you prevent getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on concealed rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which suggests 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a repeating feature of summer season in the Aegean. These solid northern winds are affected by a warm trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers yet it likewise presents obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June with September but they have actually been understood to start a month previously in May. The good news is, experienced sailors recognize what to expect and can plan as necessary.
The meltemi usually picks up in the mid-day, getting to 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and afterwards discolors by sunset. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon for it to linger throughout the night. The meltemi ventilates the entire Aegean and can create horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind steep cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a good variety of windmills embellish the hills of these islands and the islanders are proficient in keeping their towns safeguarded by constructing stone walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are awesome completely dry winds that solidify the warm summertime sunlight of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September usvi catamaran charter 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 range is a rating system of wind strength).
They are created when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans fulfills a low stress trough over Turkey. They usually blow from northeast in the north Aegean, turning to northwest in the western Aegean and after that north in the central Aegean.
These solid katabatic winds can be difficult for much less experienced seafarers and can make swimming and water sports challenging as they develop effective currents. Nonetheless, they offer air conditioning, low moisture and great presence. They are greatest throughout the afternoon and commonly calm down during the night. The meltemi wind is a defining attribute of the Aegean summer.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are caused by the communication in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows with the southerly Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a couple of days at a time, peaking in July and August. They typically reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale however can often be also more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For seasoned seafarers, meltemi winds are a present. They provide perfect conditions for thrilling cruising experiences. For several, this is the major factor they pick to cruise the Aegean throughout the summer.
While meltemi can be challenging, it is also a natural a/c that maintains temperature levels great and lowers humidity. The strong northern wind makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It also shapes the landscape and lifestyle of the islanders, linking contemporary tourists to old seafaring practices.
