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.