After weeks of scorching temperatures and desperately dry conditions, Hungary may finally be heading for a major weather change. Forecasts currently suggest that a slow-moving weather front could bring widespread rain across the country next week – although another burst of extreme heat is expected before then.
Relief may finally be on the way
A persistent area of high pressure over Western Europe has continued to draw hot, dry air from Africa towards Hungary, keeping temperatures exceptionally high and rainfall scarce. According to meteorologist László Molnár, however, the current weather pattern could finally change next week.
“According to the current situation, a wavy frontal system will reach Hungary at this time, which could finally bring more significant, nationwide rainfall,” he told 24.hu.
Current forecasts suggest that the frontal system could arrive around 17–18 August, with the most significant rainfall expected on 18–19 August.
Across the country, 10–30 millimetres of rain could fall on average, potentially providing some much-needed relief after weeks of severe dryness.
But the heat is not over yet
There is still plenty of hot weather to come before the rain arrives. Temperatures could reach 31–37°C on Monday, while some parts of Hungary could see highs of 39°C on Tuesday. A weak front is expected to arrive overnight on Tuesday, bringing temporary relief on Wednesday and Thursday, when temperatures are forecast to fall to around 27–34°C.
The respite will be short-lived, however. From Friday, temperatures are expected to climb again, with highs of 35–40°C possible over the weekend. The chance of meaningful rainfall will remain very low.
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The rain could bring some relief from the drought
The anticipated rainfall would be particularly welcome after Hungary’s prolonged dry spell. The country’s upper soil layers have been suffering from severe moisture shortages, while recent weather fronts have generally produced only isolated and sometimes intense thunderstorms rather than the widespread, soaking rainfall needed by agriculture and nature.
The extreme heat has made the situation even more difficult. Hungary has experienced repeated periods of temperatures around or above 35°C, with authorities previously issuing the country’s highest-level heat warning.
The forecast rainfall next week could therefore bring a significant, if temporary, improvement.
Another dry spell could follow
Unfortunately, the change may not last for long. From 20 August, an area of high pressure is expected to return, bringing another period of warm and dry weather. Current forecasts suggest that these conditions could persist until around 25 August, when another rain-bearing front may arrive.
For now, however, there is at least some hope on the horizon: after weeks of heat and drought, Hungary could finally see widespread rain in the middle of next week. Forecasts can still change several days ahead, particularly regarding the exact location and amount of rainfall.
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