üleõhu

**Üleõhu** refers to the phenomenon of a sudden, strong gust of wind that occurs in Estonia, particularly in coastal and inland areas. The term originates from the Estonian language, where "üle" means "over" and "õhu" means "air," suggesting a wind that blows over or through a specific area with considerable force.

Üleõhu events are often associated with rapidly changing weather conditions, such as the passage of cold fronts or low-pressure systems. These gusts can vary in intensity but are typically strong enough to cause noticeable effects, such as swaying trees, disrupting outdoor activities, or even damaging structures in extreme cases. While not as severe as tropical cyclones or hurricanes, üleõhu gusts can still pose risks, particularly in rural or exposed areas.

The occurrence of üleõhu is influenced by Estonia’s geographical location, which is prone to the interaction of air masses from different regions, including the Baltic Sea and continental Europe. Meteorological studies suggest that these gusts are more frequent during transitional seasons, such as spring and autumn, when temperature contrasts are more pronounced.

In Estonian folklore and weather lore, üleõhu has been observed as an indicator of impending changes in the weather. Modern meteorological monitoring helps predict and warn about such events, allowing for better preparedness in both urban and rural settings. While not a widely recognized term outside of Estonia, üleõhu highlights the unique weather patterns experienced in the region.