Hungary battles drought with water restrictions in 465 towns

Budapest, Hungary – Hungary is battling a severe drought, forcing the government to impose water usage restrictions in 465 municipalities across the country. The measures aim to curb the consumption of drinking water for non-essential purposes.

Residents are now prohibited from using drinking water to water gardens, lawns, or parks with a hose. Filling private swimming pools from the mains supply, washing vehicles with a hose, and cleaning roads, pavements, or courtyards with tap water are also forbidden. The use of automatic irrigation systems is similarly restricted.

Compounding the water crisis, the Paks nuclear power plant has significantly reduced its energy output. Its capacity has been lowered from 2000 MW to 230 MW because low water levels in the Danube River, used for cooling, are hindering operations. Meanwhile, the government has mobilized approximately 2,500 volunteers from the ruling Tisza party to assist in water distribution, delivering 100,000 liters of drinking water to 350 locations.

Hungarian soldiers are also working around the clock to ensure continuous drinking water supplies, having already transported 2 million liters. The Ministry of Environment reported a 9% decrease in water consumption in recent days, but warned that the most challenging days lie ahead as the country remains under a third-degree heat alert until Friday. Officials urge continued responsible water use to guarantee uninterrupted supply to households.