CLOUDINESS IN THE POLISH COASTAL ZONE OF THE BALTIC SEA AND CONDITIONS FOR RECREATION
Purpose. Determination of size, variability and gradient of cloudiness on the Polish coast of the Baltic sea during the summer half-year and identification of zones with variable suitability for recreation due to cloudiness. Method. The research is based on daily values of cloudiness in the warm half-year (April-September) recorded on a scale from 0 to 8 octants, obtained from six meteorological stations located on the Polish coast of the Baltic sea during the period 2000–2016. Methods of linear regression were used in the analysis of temporal variations of cumulative monthly deviations in cloudiness for consecutive years from the mean multiannual value. In terms of recreational suitability, days were categorised into four classes according to cloudiness. Three zones of varying conditions for recreation were identified. Results. The essential characteristic of cloudiness on the Polish coast of the Baltic sea is very high variability from one day to another and the resulting change in the value of solar radiation, which, consequently affects bioclimatic stimuli. Cumulative deviations of monthly cloudiness values from the mean multiannual value show a decrease in cloudiness in April, June and July, and an increase in the remaining months of the warm half-year. It is possible to distinguish three periods regarding increased frequency of clear and moderately clear weather lasting continuously for at least 3 and 5 days on the coastal zone in summer. The Polish coast of the Baltic sea is marked by three zones of varying conditions for recreation due to cloudiness in the summer – moderately favourable, favourable and very favourable. Research and conclusion limitations. Lack of access to time-specific results of cloudiness measurement. Practical implications. The results obtained in the course of this research may be used by individuals as well as the organizers of their stays, and for the purpose of characterisation of bioclimatic conditions of the coast. Originality. In view of the recent climatic changes recorded over the last 30 years, the present research demonstrates the current cloudiness level on the Polish coast of the Baltic sea. Type of research. Presentation of the results of empirical research.