Hungarian PM Magyar Péter orders remote work for public sector as heatwave peaks

Prime Minister Magyar Péter announced that, effective Monday, public‑sector employees in Hungary must work from home due to an extreme heatwave. He also urged private employers to enable tele‑work where possible and to postpone outdoor tasks. The government confirmed a fire‑ban remains in force, urged restaurants to provide water and toilet facilities for non‑paying guests, and directed that temples and public institutions stay open to offer cooling spaces.

Temperatures reached new highs, with 40 °C recorded in Budakalász and 39.8 °C in Újpest, breaking the national daily record set in 1935. Health officials warned that the elderly, children, pregnant women and outdoor workers are at greatest risk and recommended ample fluid intake, avoiding the midday heat and using shade.

In a separate briefing, Magyar Péter warned that the national budget deficit could exceed 7 % even with EU funds, potentially reaching over 8 % without them. He highlighted that 91 bridges are in critical condition, underscoring the need for substantial infrastructure investment. The measures aim to protect public health while addressing broader economic and infrastructure challenges amid the extreme weather event.