Saharan dust, muddy rain and ruddy skies follow ice and snow in Hungary – here’s what to expect this week

After the prolonged grip of ice and snow, we can look forward to spring-like days in the coming days, yet full relief remains elusive. Though the sun has emerged across much of the country today, Saharan dust will soon blanket significant swathes of Hungary.

Saharan dust to envelop Hungary

Moist, mild air continues to replenish the Carpathian Basin, bringing Saharan-origin dust at its peak concentration on Wednesday afternoon, according to HungaroMet Ltd on Facebook. Expect muddy rain in several areas on Wednesday, with precipitation easing temporarily by evening, though scattered light showers may linger into Thursday.

What else lies ahead this week?

Temperatures

Időkép forecasts highs of up to 7°C this afternoon. Friday will see minima from -1°C to +6°C and maxima between 8°C and 14°C, save for chillier conditions in the Northern Central Uplands. The weekend promises 5-12°C, with similar on Sunday.

Today morning started with +10 Celsius degrees at the Southern foothills of the Mátra:

Precipitation

Light rain may persist today, but clouds will break by afternoon, yielding prolonged sunshine in most spots. Friday could bring showers in central, northern and north-eastern regions, with weak rain near the south-western border by evening. Saturday and Sunday will feature only isolated light showers, mostly clear skies and dominant sunshine. Sleet or light snow is possible only on Sunday in the north-east.

Wind

Westerly to north-westerly breezes predominate, mostly unremarkable across much of the country. Strong gusts are confined to the Bakony on Sunday.

In sum, those planning outings after Hungary’s unseasonably cold and protracted winter would do well to seize this weekend for a short hike or stroll – provided they dress warmly in layers.

In case you missed our previous, weather-related articles:

• Could Europe face a colder February? What the polar vortex is signaling
• Powerful geomagnetic storm bathes Lake Balaton and Hungary in otherworldly glow – photos, video