The meltemi winds, likewise referred to as the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique all-natural sensation connected exclusively to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are strong, completely dry, and often reach up to 7 on the Beaufort range.
The wind's intensity is amplified by the area's numerous islands, which work as all-natural funnels and accelerate its rate. It typically grabs stamina throughout the afternoon and wanes by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and generally appear during the summer months between June and September, particularly in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring extreme cruising conditions yet it likewise brings air conditioning, low humidity and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean during meltemi winds can be challenging however rewarding for skilled sailors. Prep work is essential to navigating in these problems, including inspecting weather report and intending routes very carefully. It's additionally vital to pick a trusted charter business that can offer neighborhood expertise and suggestions.
Tourists visiting the Aegean during meltemi period need to be aware of the capacity for harsh seas and solid currents, which can interrupt swimming activities and public ferryboats. Nonetheless, there are still a lot of means to take pleasure in the lovely views and sunlight. Simply make sure to comply with the security standards listed below and put on ideal clothes. Likewise, stay clear of entering the water during top wind hours. This will certainly assist you stay clear of getting dragged in by solid currents or being caught on surprise rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which indicates 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a repeating attribute of summer season in the Aegean. These strong north winds are affected by a heat trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a breeze for seafarers but it also provides obstacles.
The etesian winds blow from June through September however they have been known to start a month earlier in May. Thankfully, seasoned seafarers recognize what to anticipate and can prepare as necessary.
The meltemi generally grabs in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its toughest, and after that fades by sundown. Nevertheless, it is not unusual for it to continue throughout the evening. The meltemi aerates the whole Aegean and can develop horrible downslope gusts in the lee of Kea, Andros, Tinos, and behind high high cliffs on Folegandros, Sifnos, and Serifos. It is the reason a great number of windmills enhance capitals of these islands and the islanders are proficient in keeping their towns secured by developing rock walls.
Strength
The meltemi winds are awesome 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 height in July and August. They are typically 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a rating system of wind strength).
They are produced when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans meets a reduced stress trough over Turkey. They usually 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 hard for much less skilled seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they develop effective currents. Nevertheless, they provide cooling, reduced humidity and good exposure. They are toughest throughout the afternoon and usually cool down during the night. The meltemi wind is a 3 day yacht charter st barts specifying function of the Aegean summer.
Period
The meltemi winds are seasonal and are triggered by the interaction in between high pressure systems over Greece and low stress systems over Turkey. The outcome is an effective wind tunnel that strikes with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds usually last for a few days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale however can in some cases be even more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled sailors, meltemi winds are a gift. They supply excellent problems for exhilarating cruising experiences. For several, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summertime.
While meltemi can be tough, it is likewise an all-natural air conditioner that maintains temperature levels great and reduces moisture. The solid northern breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally forms the landscape and way of life of the islanders, attaching modern tourists to old seafaring customs.
