Hungary grapples with record heat, water restrictions and power demand surge

A prolonged heatwave has pushed Hungary into extreme conditions. Nationwide temperatures broke multiple records, with daytime highs reaching 40 °C and minimum temperatures also setting new lows. The intense heat has caused the water level of Lake Balalan to fall, exposing the sandbank known locally as Majomsziget and raising surface temperatures near 33 °C.

Prime Minister Magyar Péter issued an urgent appeal, extending the third‑level heat alert and urging citizens to limit non‑essential water use. Several towns in Pest and Fejér counties have been placed under second‑ or third‑level water restrictions, banning irrigation, car washing and pool filling. The Duna‑Menti Regional Water Company warned that continued high consumption could lead to broader supply failures.

The heat also drove electricity demand to a historic peak of 7 488 MW, surpassing the previous summer record. Energy officials asked households to reduce power use during evening hours. Experts highlighted that expanding green infrastructure could mitigate future heat impacts.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as a cooler front is expected later in the week, but warnings remain in place for high temperatures and potential thunderstorms.