Drought and heat transform ecosystems across the Carpathian Basin

Severe drought and extreme heat are causing rapid environmental transformations across the Carpathian Basin, specifically impacting Hungary and the surrounding region. Experts note that shallow wetlands are drying up earlier and more quickly, while groundwater levels continue to decline.

In Hungary, the Hortobágy National Park Directorate reports significant impacts on biodiversity. Amphibian populations, such as the European fire-bellied toad, have faced substantial losses due to the lack of consistent water replenishment in marshlands. The loss of cool, humid micro-habitats and the reduction of food sources are further threatening protected species.

Dr. Csaba Gyuricza, Rector of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, states that the current drought is unprecedented, with some areas lacking an entire year's worth of precipitation in the soil. While food production remains possible, he emphasizes that the agricultural sector must shift from intensive industrial methods toward innovative, adaptive technologies to survive the increasing desertification and heatwaves in the region.