Severe weather warning issued: Hungary braces for dangerous storms, high winds, and hail this weekend
Hungary is experiencing an early taste of summer, with temperatures in many areas reaching close to 30°C as May begins. The sunny, warm weather has brought daytime highs more typical of June, and meteorologists report that the start of May has seen plenty of sunshine and only a few scattered clouds across the country. However, the dry spell is a growing concern, especially for agriculture, as much-needed rainfall has been both scarce and unevenly distributed.
Dry soils and uneven rainfall
While some southwestern, central, and northern regions received ample rain during a brief wet period last week, large areas of the Great Hungarian Plain—especially in the east and southeast—remain parched. The top 10–30 cm of soil in these regions is notably dry, making it difficult for crops like corn, sunflower, and soybean to sprout and thrive. Meteorologists emphasise the need for the “golden” May rains, which are vital for successful planting and crop growth.
Weekend weather shift: Storms and cooler air
The weather pattern is set to change over the weekend. A frontal system is approaching Hungary, and by Saturday, the country will see a marked increase in wind speeds, prompting weather warnings for gusts of 60–90 km/h. Thunderstorms may develop in the northeast during the early afternoon, with a higher chance of severe storms-including hail and heavy rain-spreading from the northwest to the north and northeast later in the day.
By Sunday, the risk of thunderstorms remains, with the primary hazards being lightning, strong winds, and occasional hail. According to Economx, the Hungarian Meteorological Service has issued a first-level weather alert for Sunday, cautioning residents about the potential for rapidly changing and hazardous conditions.
What to expect in May
Despite the current warm spell, May in Hungary typically brings moderate temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 22°C and nighttime lows near 11°C. Rainfall is common, with Budapest seeing about 12–19 days of rain and 56–71 mm of precipitation over the month. Sunshine is still plentiful, averaging 8 hours per day, but the weather can shift quickly, so it’s wise to stay updated on forecasts if you have outdoor plans.
Summary
Hungary’s early May weather has been unusually warm and sunny, but the country is bracing for a stormy weekend with strong winds, thunderstorms, and much-needed rain. While the rain will be welcome for farmers, its distribution is likely to remain uneven, and some regions may continue to struggle with dry soils. Residents and visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions during the weekend.
Read more about the weather in Hungary HERE.
Read also:
- Hungary split by wild weather: Nearly 17°C temperature gap between East and West
- The storm of the century? Tornado hit Soltvadkert in Central Hungary – PHOTOS
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