Hungarian summers have grown 50 days longer since the 1970s

Over the past five decades, the seasons in Hungary—like much of the Northern Hemisphere—have undergone a dramatic shift. The most striking change is that summer has grown about 50 days longer compared to the 1970s, while spring and fall have shortened. These changes are having tangible effects not only on weather patterns, but also on daily life, agriculture, and ecosystems.

Summer expansion: 50 extra days of heat

From 1971 to 1980, summer in Hungary typically began on June 21 and ended on August 20. In contrast, during the 2010s, the hottest season stretched from May 29 through September 17, adding up to 50 more days of summer, according to MásfélFok. This shift isn’t unique to Hungary—similar trends have been observed across the mid-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere, where summer has lengthened by an average of 17 days, while winter, spring, and fall have shortened by 3, 9, and 5 days, respectively.

The beginning and end of summer are defined by average daily temperatures, according to research: summer starts when the average daily temperature exceeds 17.71°C and ends when it dips below that threshold. For winter, the defining temperature is 3.42°C.

What’s behind the shift?

The primary driver of this phenomenon is global warming. As greenhouse gas emissions increase, so do average temperatures. This results in the seasons shifting: spring and summer begin earlier, while autumn and winter start later but last for a shorter duration. If current trends continue, summer in the Northern Hemisphere could stretch to half the year by the end of the century, with winter shrinking to just two months.

Ecological and social implications

This seasonal reordering carries major ecological consequences. Plants are particularly sensitive to the changes: an earlier spring means earlier growth, which increases the risk of frost damage from sudden cold snaps. Disruptions in phenological phases—such as blooming and fruiting—can lead to lower yields and reduced quality, affecting not just natural ecosystems but also agriculture.

Wildlife is also feeling the effects. Birds, for instance, are nesting earlier, but a shorter optimal feeding window can make it difficult to raise their young effectively, potentially shrinking populations. Migratory birds that fail to adapt are declining, while species that manage to adjust are faring better.

Longer, hotter summers have also spurred the spread of invasive species, including new mosquito varieties capable of transmitting exotic diseases. Allergy seasons are growing longer and more intense, while shorter winters are cutting into ski season.

What’s ahead?

Climate models suggest that without reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the seasons will continue to shift even more dramatically. This could fundamentally change our way of life, agricultural practices, and the structure of ecosystems. The rapid and significant reorganization of the seasons poses a serious challenge for all living things—adaptation will be key to survival.

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Read more about weather in Hungary HERE.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com