Sharp cold snap to close the year in Hungary as arctic air sweeps in

Hungary is set to experience a decisive winter turn as the final days of the year bring freezing temperatures, biting winds, and the return of snow in several waves. While the change will also usher in clearer, sunnier skies, nights will be marked by severe frosts across much of the country.

Snow and sunshine after Christmas

Although only western Hungary saw snowfall on Christmas Eve, conditions are expected to change nationwide by the end of December. According to Időkép’s forecast, cold air arriving in multiple phases will bring snow showers to several regions, while daytime temperatures are unlikely to climb above 4°C.

From December 26 and throughout the weekend, many parts of the country can expect bright sunshine. However, night-time temperatures will drop below freezing almost everywhere, with frost-prone areas seeing lows close to -10°C.

• White Christmas arrives in Sopron as snow falls across north-west Hungary

Arctic air arrives from the north

The cold spell will be driven by a large-scale atmospheric shift. An extensive cyclone system over north-eastern Europe, combined with a strengthening anticyclone near Iceland and the British Isles, will funnel frigid air into the Carpathian Basin from the north and north-west.

The first wave of this cold air is expected overnight into Sunday. While widespread snowfall is not anticipated at this stage, isolated snow showers may occur, accompanied by strengthening north-westerly winds.

More cold fronts and snow showers ahead

A second cold front is forecast to arrive early Tuesday, bringing additional snow showers and gusty winds. Temperatures will remain well below seasonal averages, and no significant warming is expected before New Year’s Eve.