Hungary’s Lake Velence has reached its lowest water level on record, with measurements showing just 49 centimetres of water at Agárd—far below the lake’s optimal level of 130 centimetres—as an intense heatwave continues to grip the country.
The shallow southern shore has been hit hardest. Large sections of the lakebed are now exposed, with photographs showing that at least 60 centimetres of water is effectively missing from areas that would normally be submerged, despite the summer season only just beginning.
The previous all-time low water level of 53 centimetres was recorded on 23 September 2022, at the end of the tourist season. This year’s record has been broken before the arrival of July, raising concerns about how the lake will cope if the hot, dry weather continues.
Water temperatures have also climbed above 30 degrees Celsius, with even higher temperatures measured in the shallowest sections of the lake. Visitors have described the water as feeling almost hot to the touch, while local observations report an increasingly unpleasant smell.
The situation is particularly worrying around Dinnyés, where extensive reed beds form part of a protected nature reserve that supports valuable bird populations. As water has disappeared from large parts of the reeds, the habitat is supporting fewer species, while the vegetation can no longer perform its natural water-filtering function effectively.
The deteriorating conditions are also affecting tourism. Contrary to expectations that the heatwave would attract more visitors, local businesses say the opposite has happened. Restaurant and hospitality operators along the waterfront report dramatically reduced customer numbers, with one business owner saying visitor traffic is now lower than during the winter months.
Only three beaches remain open on the lake’s southern shore. Local observers also point to additional sanitation concerns, noting that public toilets are closed at some locations. As children’s camps continue to bring groups to the lakeside, the lack of facilities may place further pressure on water quality.
The crisis at Lake Velence comes as Hungary experiences one of its most severe heatwaves on record. On Monday, temperatures reached 41.8 degrees Celsius in Aszód, setting new national daily and monthly heat records. Forecasters expect the extreme heat to peak on Tuesday before a cold front is expected to bring relief later in the week.
The Hungarian government has already introduced emergency heatwave measures, including expanded public information campaigns, water distribution and temporary home working arrangements across parts of the public sector.
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