Hungary is set to endure its hottest day of the week on Friday, with temperatures potentially reaching 38°C, while severe thunderstorms and torrential rain could hit several parts of the country.

According to HungaroMet, temperatures will climb to between 31°C and 38°C during the hottest hours of Friday. The north-western and northern parts of the country are expected to see showers and thunderstorms, despite generally sunny conditions with high and cumulus clouds.

The biggest risk of severe weather will be in Transdanubia, where thunderstorms could bring torrential downpours and powerful winds. Strong south-westerly and westerly winds are also expected west of the Tisza River. Around thunderstorms, gusts could become storm-force or even exceptionally strong.

Heat peaks on Friday

The hottest conditions are expected away from the north-western border, where temperatures may be a few degrees lower. Elsewhere, the mercury could rise as high as 38°C.

The heat has already prompted the national chief medical officer to issue a second-degree heat alert across the whole of Hungary. The warning came into force at midnight on Thursday and will remain in place until midnight on Sunday.

People spending time outdoors are advised to take precautions against the extreme heat, particularly during the hottest part of the afternoon.

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Temperatures ease slightly over the weekend

The heat will begin to ease on Saturday, although temperatures will remain high. Western Hungary is expected to be cloudier, while sunnier conditions will prevail in the east. A few showers or thunderstorms could still develop in the north-east. The north-westerly wind will strengthen in several areas.

Temperatures will range from 16°C to 25°C in the early morning and 25°C to 37°C in the afternoon.

Sunday will bring a more settled picture, with sunshine accompanied by high and cumulus clouds and little chance of rain. Northerly winds may strengthen in some areas. Morning temperatures are expected to range from 15°C to 20°C, while afternoon highs will fall to 25°C–32°C nationwide.

From scorching heat to stormy weather

Friday is therefore likely to bring a sharp contrast across Hungary: near-40°C heat in some areas alongside potentially severe thunderstorms, torrential rain and powerful wind gusts. The weekend should gradually become cooler and drier, with the most significant relief arriving by Sunday.

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