Two worlds meet in Hungary: Violent storms in some places, scorching heat in others

Hungary is divided: in the northern and northwestern parts of Transdanubia, temperatures have dropped below 30°C with violent storms, while the southern and southeastern regions are still experiencing a heatwave with temperatures reaching 36-38°C during midday. The difference between the two corners of the country can be more than 10°C.

Heatwave, storms

Bathers in the heat at Palatinus beach on Margaret Island, Budapest on 13 July 2024. Photo: MTI/Balogh Zoltán

Relief has come to the northern and northwestern parts of Transdanubia, as well as the broader region of the Northern Central Mountains (Északi-középhegység). According to Időkép, slightly cooler air masses have brought a few degrees of respite from the intense heat in these areas today. By 12:30 PM, thermometers in the northwest were showing values between 25 and 29°C, a refreshing change compared to the previous 35°C.

However, those living in the southern and southeastern parts of the country are less fortunate, as the heatwave continues unabated with midday temperatures reaching 36-38°C. Today, we can still expect cooling thunderstorms and potentially record-breaking temperatures. These storms may bring heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds.

Read also:

• Attention: Trains running in Hungary not fit for this climate – MÁV’s advice
• Highest-level heat alert issued in Hungary, scorching heat expected this weekend – UPDATE: 102-yo record broken