Meltemi Wind
The Meltemi Wind was known as the “Etesian” North Wind which translates as “yearly wind”. It is a wind exclusively associated with the Aegean Sea. When Meltemi Wind does blow it can be quite harsh both on land and sea.This is especially true during the warmer months of July and August. This is definitely not absolute because it can take days from June and September. It depends on the year.
On average, the meltemi blows around 4 to 5 on the Beaufort scale, but sometimes it can go much higher, i.e. between 5 and 7 or occasionally even 8.
The Meltemi Wind generally blows during the daytime, typically being at its strongest during the afternoon and early evening, and dies down at night.
The pleasure but also the difficulties
For the experienced sailor, it can be a real joy when the Meltemi starts to blow as it means there is the potential for enjoyable sailing. This presupposes Knowledge and Experience.
However, for yachting newcomers, it can prove quite difficult when the meltemi starts blowing. Which can make it feel a bit uncomfortable.
The problem is that Meltemi Wind can often be a bit unpredictable. As it can start suddenly without any warning, taking you by surprise because you don’t expect it.
For the experienced sailor, it can be pure delight when the Meltemi blows. But for anyone who wants a calmer sailing, it can prove to be more or less difficult and uncomfortable.
What causes trade winds?
Believe it or not, the Meltemi Wind is linked to the Indian monsoons and the Azores anticyclone. It may also be affected by the rainfall in Central Europe and the Balkans.
These weather conditions cause differences in atmospheric pressure over the Aegean, resulting in strong winds over the Aegean.
The channeling of the wind between the islands causes its speed to increase further. Because there are so many islands in the Aegean, the meltemi can be extremely strong!