Meteorologist Theodoros Kolydas has detailed the rare polar meltemi wind phenomenon that affected Greece during the final days of July 2026. He referred to the meteorological event as the invisible regulator of the Greek summer.
According to Kolydas, analysis of ERA5 data showed that wind gusts exceeded 72 kilometers per hour during late July. He noted that the speed and extended duration ranked the episode among the most powerful recorded in nearly five decades.
Polar Meltemi Characteristics
Kolydas explained that while typical meltemi winds are persistent northern winds over the Aegean Sea, polar meltemi events occur when atmospheric circulation reorganizes. This causes northern winds to strengthen, reach deeper into the troposphere, and remain consistent over several consecutive days.
He noted that these specific characteristics were documented in Greek meteorological literature by Konstantakopoulos in 1959. The sustained northerly winds significantly influenced temperature dynamics across eastern Greece.
Impacts on Wildfires and Navigation
Kolydas said the polar meltemi acts as a natural cooling mechanism that regulates extreme temperatures across several regions of the country. However, he cautioned that the strong winds also heighten navigation hazards for seafarers and accelerate the risk of rapid wildfire spread.
He added that understanding the rare phenomenon is invaluable for weather forecasting, civil protection efforts, and maritime operations.
