Hungarian water utilities urge conservation as heatwave spikes demand

The North Hungarian Regional Water Supply Company and the Duna Menti Regional Water Company warned residents that the intense summer heat has driven water consumption sharply higher. They asked people to limit activities such as filling pools, washing cars and irrigating gardens, especially during peak hours, and to postpone non‑essential use.

First‑level water restrictions are already in place in several municipalities, and on June 29 the town of Szada lost its tap water due to network overload. Overall water use in Pest County rose by about 55 percent, causing intermittent supply interruptions in areas like Gödöllő, Úröm, Pomáz and Solymár. The utilities cautioned that if consumption remains at current levels, a total network collapse could occur, and they have requested second‑level restrictions that also affect businesses.

The companies emphasised that “the provider is prepared to meet the increased water demand,” but stressed that “conscious water use by the public is essential to keep the service continuous during the heatwave.”