The meltemi winds, likewise called the Etesian north wind are a distinct and unique all-natural sensation connected solely to the Aegean Sea. These seasonal winds are solid, completely dry, and usually reach up to 7 on the Beaufort scale.
The wind's strength is enhanced by the region's several islands, which serve as natural funnels and increase its speed. It typically gets strength throughout the afternoon and dies down by nighttime.
Weather condition
The meltemi winds are seasonal and typically show up during the summer months in between June and September, especially in July and August. This katabatic wind can bring rough sailing problems however it also brings air conditioning, low moisture and clear skies.
Cruising in the Aegean throughout meltemi winds can be challenging however fulfilling for seasoned sailors. Prep work is vital to navigating in these problems, consisting of checking weather report and preparing courses very carefully. It's additionally important to pick a reliable charter business that can give local understanding and recommendations.
Visitors visiting the Aegean during meltemi period must be aware of the potential for rough seas and solid currents, which can interfere with swimming tasks and public ferryboats. However, there are still plenty of methods to take pleasure in the attractive scenery and sunshine. Just make sure to comply with the safety and security standards listed below and wear appropriate clothes. Likewise, prevent getting in the water throughout optimal wind hours. This will certainly help you avoid getting dragged in by strong currents or being caught on covert rocks or reefs.
Frequency
Meltemi-- which implies 'yearly wind' in Greek-- is a persisting attribute of summer in the Aegean. These solid north winds are affected by a warmth trough over Turkey and a high pressure ridge in the Balkans. Its omnipresence makes it a wind for seafarers yet it additionally offers obstacles.
The etesian winds impact from June via September but they have been known to start a month earlier in May. Fortunately, seasoned sailors know what to expect and can plan accordingly.
The meltemi typically picks up in the afternoon, reaching 5-- 7 Beaufort at its strongest, and then fades by sundown. However, it is not unusual for it to linger throughout the evening. The meltemi aerates the entire 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 good number of windmills decorate capitals of these islands and the islanders are knowledgeable in maintaining their towns best time to visit british virgin islands secured by developing stone wall surfaces.
Strength
The meltemi winds are great dry winds that toughen up the warm summertime sun of Greece and its islands. They are seasonal and can blow from June to September with a peak in July and August. They are usually 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range yet they can rise to 7 (Beaufort scale is a rating system of wind strength).
They are developed when a high pressure ridge over the Balkans satisfies a low pressure 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 solid katabatic winds can be tough for less skilled seafarers and can make swimming and water sporting activities challenging as they create effective currents. Nevertheless, they offer cooling, reduced humidity and good presence. They are best during the afternoon and commonly relax at night. The meltemi wind is a 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 reduced pressure systems over Turkey. The outcome is a powerful wind tunnel that blows with the southern Aegean and Cyclades islands. The winds commonly last for a couple of days at a time, coming to a head in July and August. They normally reach 4 to 5 on the Beaufort range but can occasionally be also more powerful rising to 7 or 8.
For skilled seafarers, meltemi winds are a gift. They provide suitable conditions for electrifying sailing adventures. For lots of, this is the main factor they choose to cruise the Aegean during the summer season.
While meltemi can be difficult, it is additionally an all-natural ac system that maintains temperatures trendy and decreases moisture. The strong north breeze makes Paros and various other Greek islands a paradise for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It additionally shapes the landscape and way of life of the islanders, connecting contemporary travelers to old seafaring practices.
