Hungary issues 2nd-degree heat warning as temperatures soar nationwide
Hungary’s Chief Medical Officer has issued a second-degree heat warning for the entire country, effective from midnight on Monday, 30 June, through midnight on Friday, 4 July. The warning comes as forecasters predict a prolonged heatwave, especially intense in urban areas where buildings and paved surfaces retain heat well into the night.
Second-degree heat warning: Risks and health impacts
The National Public Health and Pharmaceutical Centre, together with the National Directorate General for Disaster Management, warns that the extreme heat poses significant physical and mental health risks. Prolonged high temperatures can lead to decreased concentration, slower reaction times, and increased irritability, all of which heighten the risk of accidents, particularly in traffic, Telex writes.
Certain groups are especially vulnerable, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with cardiovascular conditions. The authorities stress the importance of continuous hydration and regular cooling of the body with water sprays, wet cloths, lukewarm showers, or foot baths: even a few minutes can help reduce heat stress.
Food safety and fire hazards
Food safety is also a concern during the heatwave. Animal-based foods spoil more quickly in the heat, so officials advise against leaving groceries in car trunks for extended periods and recommend avoiding consumption of leftovers that are several days old.
The risk of fires is elevated: from Monday to Friday, firefighters responded to 395 outdoor fires, including a blaze that consumed 60 hectares. In total, 8.7 million square meters of land burned in the past week. The public is urged not to light fires outdoors during the warning period. While grilling or cooking in private gardens is permitted, fires should never be left unattended.
Additional safety recommendations
- Always check parked vehicles to ensure no children, animals, or heat-sensitive items are left inside.
- Avoid walking dogs on hot asphalt or concrete, as surface temperatures can reach 60–70°C, risking burns to pets’ paws.
- Be cautious with open-flame water heaters, as reduced chimney draft in extreme heat can lead to carbon monoxide buildup: firefighters responded to 36 carbon monoxide alerts this week.
- Download the VÉSZ app for real-time alerts on extreme weather and fire hazards.
Record temperatures
According to HungaroMet, the heatwave has already broken temperature records in several locations, with Kübekháza reaching 39.9°C and Újpest 39.7°C, both just shy of the 40°C mark.
Authorities urge the public to take the warning seriously, follow safety recommendations, and prepare for several days of extreme heat across Hungary.
Read more about the weather in Hungary and weather forecasts on Daily News Hungary!
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