Hungary's Lake Balaton water level falls, prompting restrictions

Lake Balaton's water level has dropped to roughly 65 cm, well below the typical summer range of 70‑110 cm. Experts attribute the decline to prolonged hot, dry weather that has accelerated evaporation, with the lake losing nearly a centimetre of water each day – amounting to several million cubic metres. While such fluctuations are natural, the current low level has raised concerns for recreation, tourism and the lake’s ecological balance.

In response, the municipality of Lengyeltóti imposed secondary water‑use restrictions for an indefinite period, banning activities such as irrigation, filling pools, vehicle hose‑washing and street cleaning, and urging farmers to cut consumption by at least 10 %. The water shortage also forced the postponement of the Kékszalag sailing race. Forecasts suggest the level may continue to fall through the end of the month.