Nortada

The Nortada ("north wind") is a summer wind along the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula from northerly directions, which occurs mainly between June and September.

The wind is created primarily by a thermal low over the Iberian Peninsula and an Azores High above the Atlantic.

[2] The wind is strengthened locally by thermal but also orographic influences, as, for instance, by mountain ranges.

A popular windsurfing and kitesurfing spot, where such a local amplification occurs, is for example the Praia do Guincho near Lisbon.

A strengthening also occurs at the Praia do Martinhal in Sagres, where the wind blows then fully offshore.