Meltemi Winds in Greece

yachting

The Meltemi occurs in Greece mainly during the summer season (June – September with 70%), but also in May and October one may frequently experience this dry wind. One should anticipate its maximum during July and August.

Usually the wind starts in the early afternoon reaching 4-5 Beaufort and dies out at sun set. However, not uncommonly it reaches 5-7 Bft during the day, perseveres during the night and blows 5-7 Bft again the next day; a pattern which can easily be repeated over many days, sometimes even up to ten days.

If during this period sailing to windward cannot be avoided, it can be very wise to lift anchor at dawn and to cover as many miles as possible before the wind starts.