Winds of the Adriatic Coastline
Northern Dalmatia (Istria and Kvarner Bay)
The winds in Northern Dalmatia bring variety and changeable conditions that sailors and locals alike must consider:
Bura: This cold, northeasterly wind often comes down from the Velebit Mountains and is well known for its sudden gusts. It can be very strong, particularly in winter, sometimes reaching over 200 km/h. It is refreshingly cool and brings with it clear visibility. However, sailors are cautious of it as it can quickly create dangerous conditions at sea.
Maestral: This is more of a fair-weather spring coming in from the northwest. It picks up around late morning, peaking in the afternoon, creating perfect sailing conditions. It also makes the heat of July and August much more bearable.
Central Dalmatia
Central Dalmatia sees a mix of these winds, along with a few additional ones that influence the region’s climate and seafaring conditions:
Jugo: Also known as Scirocco, this warm wind blows from the southeast, often carrying moisture and clouds. It brings rain and humid conditions, particularly in the spring and fall. The Jugo can last several days, creating overcast skies and somewhat stormy seas, particularly challenging for boating enthusiasts.
Lebic and Garbin: These southwest winds are less common but can be fierce. They bring dry air and can create strong cross waves that challenge sailors. The Lebic often announces itself with a vibrant, reddish sunset, signalling its approach.
Southern Dalmatia
Further down the coast, Southern Dalmatia experiences the influence of similar winds, but with some unique local variations due to the more open coastline and different topography.
Tramontana: North wind .Cold,dry wind that descends from the mountains of the northern Mediterranean and Adriatic coast. In the Adriatic, it has all the characteristics of bora, but it is not gusty ( it does not change direction and speed suddenly )and never reaches its strenght. Tramontana is usually accompanied by clear and dry weather.
Levanat: is humid and cold easterly wind in the Mediterranean, mostly moderate, and only occasionally strong. It blows for a short time, and is accompanied by cloudy and rainy weather. Levanat is a wind that comes as a precursor to a cyclon, in its front and humid part.
