Hungary braces for extreme UV radiation and scorching heatwave starting Sunday
Hungary is set to experience exceptionally high UV radiation levels and the most intense heatwave of the summer so far, meteorological services have warned. On Sunday, UV-B radiation is expected to exceed warning thresholds across the entire country, followed by a surge in temperatures nearing 40°C in the coming week.
UV index to reach dangerous levels
According to HungaroMet, the national weather service, UV-B radiation will surpass the critical index value of 7 in all regions on Sunday. Forecasts predict a UV index of 7.6 in the Northern Great Plain, 7.7 in the Southern Great Plain, and up to 7.8 in Central and Western Transdanubia, as well as in Pest County and Budapest. The highest readings, around 7.9, are expected in Southern Transdanubia and Northern Hungary.
Authorities strongly advise avoiding direct sun exposure between 11 AM and 3 PM and recommend wearing protective clothing such as shoulder-covering shirts and straw hats, along with using sunscreen. For individuals with normal skin, even 15–20 minutes in direct sunlight could result in sunburn under these conditions.
Subtropical heatwave to grip the country
As if the UV levels weren’t alarming enough, a subtropical air mass will sweep into the Carpathian Basin starting Sunday, kicking off the hottest spell of the summer so far, Időkép reports. Sunday’s temperatures will already hover around 30°C nationwide, but Monday will bring a dramatic rise.
Temperatures on Monday are expected to soar between 30°C and 36°C, with the hottest areas being the southeastern parts of Hungary and the Kisalföld region. A weak cold front arriving from the north could trigger thunderstorms and potentially severe weather in the northwestern regions Monday evening, offering only a brief respite.
Midweek lull, followed by an intensifying heatwave
Tuesday will be relatively cooler, with highs ranging from 28°C to 33°C due to the passage of the cold front. However, this will be short-lived. By Thursday, maximum temperatures are expected to surpass 35°C in many areas, and the Southern Great Plain may see sweltering conditions as high as 37–39°C.
Meteorologists are urging the public to prepare for this extreme weather event. Adequate hydration, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and caring for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and pets are essential precautions.
The upcoming week promises to be a severe test of endurance, both for the human body and public infrastructure.
Read more about the weather in Hungary HERE.
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