UPDATE – Danube’s Water Level Set to Rise Significantly in Budapest

Hey there, folks! It seems like the Danube is about to make a splash in Budapest, quite literally. The water levels are expected to rise so much that the city might have to close off the embankments by the middle of next week, around September 16th. The authorities are already gearing up for a second-degree flood alert.

So, what’s causing this sudden surge? Well, it’s all thanks to the heavy rainfall that’s been forecasted in Austria, especially in the Danube’s catchment areas. This means that the water levels in the Hungarian section of the river are about to go through the roof!

To give you an idea, on Wednesday, September 11th, the water level in Budapest was just 137 centimeters. Fast forward to the next day, and it had already risen by half a meter to 187 centimeters. Talk about a quick rise!

According to the National Water Level Forecasting Service, the Danube’s water level in Budapest could reach a whopping 565 centimeters by Tuesday, September 17th. That’s an increase of over 5.5 meters in less than a week! If this trend continues, it’s not far-fetched to think that the embankments might have to be closed off by mid-week.

The rise is so significant that the water level is expected to exceed the first-degree flood alert at Nagybajcs by Sunday, September 15th, and then the second-degree alert in the following two days.

Now, the lower embankments in Budapest are at 645 centimeters. The Forecasting Service predicts that the Danube’s water level could surpass this by Wednesday, September 18th.

Austrian meteorological sites have been talking about the potential for severe flooding due to the expected rainfall in the region for days now. The big question is whether all the precipitation will come in the form of rain or if some of it will result in snowfall at higher altitudes. If some of the expected precipitation falls as snow, it won’t immediately contribute to the increased water levels in the rivers.

As reported by Énbudapestem, the last time Budapest experienced flooding was in June 2024. Mayor Gergely Karácsony declared a first-degree flood alert on June 4th, which meant that parking on the lower embankments was prohibited.

Prior to that, there was a first-degree flood alert in Budapest on Christmas 2023. At that time, a second-degree alert was also necessary, but fortunately, the Danube peaked at 693 centimeters on December 27th, which was lower than expected.

So, if you had plans for a Danube-side adventure next week, whether it’s a hike, paddling, swimming, fishing, outdoor romance, or just sipping on some spritzers at a boat pub, you might want to think twice. Even though the water levels might seem classically low from any of the bridges in Budapest right now, with gravel and sand bars exposed, don’t be fooled. This is just the calm before the storm. By Monday, the Danube will be 4 meters higher around the capital than it is now.

The situation is pretty wild, and even experienced sailors haven’t seen a wave like this on the Danube in a long time. So, stay safe, stay informed, and maybe postpone that riverside picnic for now!

Update!

According to the latest reports, Mayor Gergely Karácsony has declared a second-level flood alert in the city. The water levels are expected to peak sometime in the second half of next week, reaching around 8 meters. While it’s higher than the floods we saw in December last year and June this year, experts say it’s not likely to reach the levels of the big flood back in 2013.

But don’t worry, the city has been working hard over the past decade to make flood protection easier. Although, there might be a need for some sandbags and temporary flood barriers in District III and on Margaret Island, just to be on the safe side.

The water utility professionals are doing their thing to keep our drinking water safe and the sewage system running smoothly. They’re also getting ready to set up those temporary flood barriers if needed.

Now, due to the rapidly rising water levels, the lower embankments are expected to be closed on Monday, September 16th. So, starting from Saturday, September 14th at midnight, parking on the lower embankments will be prohibited. If you’ve got your car parked there, make sure to move it, because the Budapest Municipal Law Enforcement Directorate will be relocating any remaining vehicles from Sunday afternoon onwards.

Mayor Karácsony is expected to make a decision about the exact timing of the closures on Saturday, once the latest forecasts are in.

So, there you have it, folks! The Danube is getting a bit frisky, but the city’s got it under control. Mayor Karácsony sends his thanks in advance to all the water utility professionals and public service employees for their hard work in flood protection, and to all you Budapesters for your understanding during this time.

Stay safe and dry out there!

Sept 15, 2024 01:23 PM

Flood Warning Issued in Budapest – Third-Level Preparedness Effective from Monday

Budapest is bracing for rising water levels as the city raises its flood preparedness to the third level starting Monday. The Danube River is expected to reach a water level of approximately 400 centimeters in the coming days, prompting authorities to take precautionary measures. Check the Hungarian Hydrological Forecasting Service’s site for the latest information on the water levels.

The lower embankments on both the Pest and Buda sides will be closed from 8 pm on Monday evening. Drivers parked in these areas are urged to remove their vehicles as soon as possible to avoid having them towed away. The Danube is expected to flood the lower embankments on Tuesday, September 17th.

Over 500 specialists have been deployed to the most vulnerable water management directorates to assist with flood protection efforts along state defense lines. Additionally, 30 technical supervisors are being dispatched to support independently defended settlements.

The weather remains extremely rainy in the Danube catchment area, particularly in the northeastern Alps and the western and northern parts of the Carpathian Basin. The movement and development of the cyclone above the region are highly uncertain, making rainfall predictions challenging.

Authorities in Budapest are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of the rising water levels on the city and its residents.

Sept 16, 2024 09:20 PM

The Greatest Flood of The Decade Is Heading Towards Budapest

The Danube River in Budapest is experiencing its highest water levels in the past decade, with a third-degree flood alert currently in effect. Water levels are rising daily, necessitating restrictions on traffic along the embankments.

Key changes to public transportation include:

• Suspension of bus line 26 and tram lines 2, 2B, and 23 starting Tuesday morning
• Rerouting of bus lines 34 and 934
• Closure of tram stops between Széchenyi Square and March 15 Square

Road closures and restrictions:

• Lower embankments on both Buda and Pest sides closed to traffic as of Monday evening
• Margaret Island to be closed off starting Tuesday, accessible only by foot from the Árpád Bridge
• Királyok Road closed between Emőd Street and Pünkösdfürdő Street in District III

Flood protection measures are underway, including the closure of outlets and sluices, preparation of water production facilities, and the distribution of up to 1 million sandbags. A 4 km long, 1 meter high, and 4 meter wide embankment is being built to support the flood defenses.

Water levels are expected to reach 8 meters by Thursday, requiring heightened protection measures at Batthyány Square. In Szentendre, a first-degree flood alert has been issued, with water levels predicted to reach 740-750 cm by Saturday, just 46 cm lower than the record set in 2013.

Sept 17, 2024 01:05 PM

Hungary activates EU’s crisis management mechanism and continues to strengthen flood protection structures

Hungary has activated the EU’s crisis management mechanism due to the severe flood situation in Central Europe. János Bóka, the minister responsible for EU affairs, announced this decision on Facebook, stating that it allows the affected member states to coordinate their defense tasks and helps determine how the EU can most effectively support them.

Several countries affected by the floods have already been forced to declare a state of emergency due to the severity of the situation. The scope of affected countries has expanded, with Germany and Slovenia now also reporting flooding in some parts of their countries.

In Budapest, both entrances to Margaret Island will be closed on Tuesday morning, September 17, 2024, with no access for cars or public transport. The island can only be accessed on foot from the north, via the Árpád Bridge. The Kopaszi Dam is also in danger as the flood warning has reached the third level in the area.

According to the head of the National Directorate of Water Management, István Láng, the current flood wave is moving down the Danube with water levels 30-50 centimeters lower than during the 2013 flood. Preparations are underway in all affected municipalities, with flood protection structures being built.

In the capital, Margaret Island and the embankments have been closed, and tram line 2 is not running between Széchenyi Square and March 15 Square. Residents are being evacuated in Baja, where the flood is expected to peak next Tuesday with a water level of 958 centimeters.

The water management authorities expect the flood to peak 30-50 centimeters lower than in 2013. The BKV has stopped 10 of its boats and closed 17 ports due to the Danube flood wave. The A38 concert and event boat and other riverside bars were also closed until further notice.

Currently, 2,500 prisoners and 700 prison staff are on standby to actively participate in flood protection if needed.

Sept 17, 2024 09:25 PM

Budapest is currently facing one of the most significant flood threats in recent decades. The city has declared a third-degree flood alert, which is affecting several public transportation routes.

Key points:

• The underground section of the H5 suburban railway (HÉV) will be closed, with trains running only up to the Margit Bridge, Buda bridgehead station.
• Both entrances to Margaret Island have been closed, and the island is only accessible on foot from the Árpád Bridge.
• Bus 26 is not operating, and trams 4 and 6 do not stop at the Margaret Island stop.
• There are closures on the lower embankments on both the Pest and Buda sides, and trams 2, 2B, and 23 are running in two sections.
• Changes are expected in the routes of buses 34 and 934.

The public transportation company BKK advises passengers to check their site for regular updates on any changes.

Volunteers and workers from the Budapest Municipality and its associated companies are working together with the Disaster Management to protect the city. Sandbags are being filled at three locations in Budapest, and the Mayor believes that everything will be ready for the flood peak by Thursday. The Hungarian Hydrological Forecasting Service’s site will provide the latest information on the water levels. Weather forecast services have several cameras set up around the city where you can check the water level live.

The flood is expected to reach the level of the lower embankments on Tuesday evening and peak at 850 centimeters near Budapest on Sunday morning, which is 41 centimeters lower than the record level in 2013.

Sept 18, 2024 09:40 AM

Budapest is currently facing the largest flood in the last decade. Due to the approaching flood wave, a third-degree flood alert is in effect. The water level of the Danube is rising daily, leading to restrictions on the traffic along the embankments and surrounding areas.

Public Transportation Changes:

• The tunnel section of the H5 HÉV (suburban railway) will be closed on Wednesday, September 18th. The HÉV will not enter its Batthyány Square terminal and will only stop at the temporary surface terminal at Margaret Bridge.
• Trams 2, 2B, and 23 will operate in two sections: from Jászai Mari Square to Széchenyi István Square, and from South Pest to Március 15 Square. No trams or replacement buses will run between Széchenyi István Square and Március 15 Square.
• Trams 4 and 6 will not stop at the Margitsziget / Margit híd stop.
• Bus 15 will be diverted and will not serve the Dorottya Street (Vörösmarty Square) stop.
• Bus 26 will not operate due to the closure of Margaret Island.
• Buses 34 and 934 will follow the route of bus 134 and will not serve stops between Békásmegyer and Rómaifürdő.

Road Traffic Restrictions:

• The Buda and Pest lower embankments are closed to traffic along their entire length.
• Both entrances to Margaret Island are closed. The island can only be accessed on foot from the Árpád Bridge.
• The bicycle path crossing the temporary Margaret Bridge HÉV terminal platform will be closed.
• Királyok Road in the 3rd district is closed between Emőd Street and Pünkösdfürdő Street.

Additional Information:

• Long-distance train services between Budapest and Vienna are gradually resuming, but the Austrian railway still advises against traveling to Austria.
• The Árpád Bridge entrance to Margaret Island will be closed on Thursday.
• The maximum water level in Budapest is expected to be 40 centimeters lower than during the great flood of 2013.
• The flood is expected to peak in the Danube Bend and Budapest by Saturday, reaching 850 centimeters in the capital.

The Hungarian Hydrological Forecasting Service’s site will provide the latest information on the water levels. Weather forecast services have several cameras set up around the city where you can check the water level live.

Sept 18, 2024 02:10 PM

Budapest Braces for Prolonged Flood Situation as Danube River Levels Rise

According to the National Water Directorate (OVF), the flood wave on the Danube typically takes 5-8 days to pass through, but this time, an even longer duration is expected. Gabriella Siklós, the spokesperson for OVF, stated that the third-degree flood alert will remain in effect for an extended period on the affected rivers.

In Budapest, the water level reached 683 centimeters on Wednesday morning, surpassing the embankment level of 645 centimeters. The flood is expected to peak in the capital on Saturday, with estimates suggesting a maximum water level of around 850 centimeters, which is 40 centimeters lower than the record-breaking flood of 2013.

Authorities have taken precautionary measures to protect the city and its residents. The Hajógyári Island, which serves as a floodplain during high water events, has been closed off by disaster management personnel. The public is strongly advised to avoid “disaster tourism” as it can hinder flood defense efforts and potentially damage the protective structures.

The rising water levels have also impacted public transportation in Budapest. The H5 HÉV suburban railway tunnel section will be closed, and temporary surface terminals will be set up at Batthyány Square and Margaret Bridge. Tram lines 2, 2B, and 23 will operate on shortened routes, while bus line 26 to Margaret Island will not run due to the island’s closure.

Road traffic restrictions are in place, with the Buda and Pest lower embankments closed along their entire length. The entrances to Margaret Island are also closed, with access limited to pedestrians only from the Árpád Bridge.

As Budapest faces this challenging situation, authorities are closely monitoring the water levels and implementing necessary measures to protect the city and its inhabitants. Residents are urged to stay informed, follow official instructions, and exercise caution during this prolonged flood event.

Sept 19, 2024 01:30 PM

To avoid congestion, authorities are urging residents to opt for public transportation. The city has increased the frequency of its busiest tram lines, including trams 4, 6, and 1, to accommodate more passengers comfortably.

Several public transportation routes have been affected by the flood. Starting September 20th, the Batthyány tér station of the M2 metro line will be closed, with trains passing through the station without stopping. During this closure, bus line 39 between Széll Kálmán tér and Batthyány tér will run more frequently and deploy articulated buses.

The tunnel section of the H5 HÉV suburban railway has also been closed, with trains terminating at a temporary surface station near Margaret Bridge instead of Batthyány tér. Trams 2, 2B, and 23 are operating in two sections, while trams 19 and 41 have been rerouted to avoid the affected areas near the Chain Bridge.

In addition to public transportation changes, road traffic restrictions have been implemented. The lower embankments on both the Buda and Pest sides have been completely closed to traffic. Margaret Island, which can now only be accessed on foot from the Árpád Bridge, has had both of its entrances closed. Other road closures include sections of Királyok útja and Pók utca in the 3rd district, as well as the Hajógyári Island, which serves as a floodplain.

Cyclists are also affected by the flood, with the closure of the Clark Ádám Square pedestrian and bicycle underpass and the bicycle path at the Buda bridgehead of Margaret Bridge. Several MOL Bubi bike-sharing stations near the river have been shut down.

As the flood continues to rise, further traffic restrictions are expected in the coming days. Authorities emphasize that the flood is not a tourist attraction and urge people to observe the phenomenon from safe locations, avoiding water production areas and respecting the work of professionals involved in flood defense.

Sept 20, 2024 02:30 PM

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is currently preparing for the highest flood in the last decade. The water level of the Danube River is rising daily, prompting the authorities to issue a third-degree flood alert. As a result, traffic restrictions have been implemented on the embankments and surrounding areas.

Public Transportation Changes:

• The Batthyány Square station of the M2 metro line has been closed, with trains passing through without stopping.
• The H5 HÉV (suburban railway) tunnel section has been closed, with trains terminating at a temporary surface station near Margaret Bridge.
• Tram lines 2, 2B, and 23 are operating in two sections, with no service between Kossuth Lajos Square and March 15 Square.
• Tram lines 4 and 6 are not stopping at the Margitsziget / Margit híd stop.
• Bus lines 34 and 934 are being rerouted due to the closure of Margaret Island.

Road Traffic Restrictions:

• The lower embankments on both the Buda and Pest sides have been completely closed to traffic.
• Both entrances to Margaret Island have been closed, with the island accessible only on foot from the Árpád Bridge.
• The Clark Ádám Square pedestrian and bicycle underpass has been closed.
• Several streets in the III. district have been closed to road traffic.
• Hajógyári Island and Népsziget have been closed by the disaster management authorities.

Bicycle Traffic Restrictions:

• The bicycle route passing through the temporary HÉV terminus at the Buda end of Margaret Bridge has been closed due to increased traffic.
• Several MOL Bubi bike-sharing stations near the Danube have been closed.

Authorities are urging residents to use public transportation whenever possible to avoid congestion. The most popular tram lines, including 4, 6, and 1, have been reinforced to accommodate more passengers comfortably.

The city is working tirelessly to protect its residents and infrastructure from the rising floodwaters, with temporary dams being constructed and hundreds of thousands of sandbags being placed in critical areas. The situation remains under constant monitoring as Budapest braces for the impending flood.

Sept 20, 2024 04:40 PM

Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is currently facing a challenging situation as the Danube River continues to rise, with the flood peak expected to occur on Sunday, September 22nd. The city has been preparing for the flood, erecting protective barriers and ensuring the smooth operation of public transportation to the best of their abilities. However, the real challenge lies ahead as the flood peak is expected to be prolonged due to recent rainfall and snowmelt in the river’s catchment areas, primarily in Austria.

The Budapest Waterworks (Fővárosi Vízművek) has been working tirelessly to maintain the continuity and safety of the city’s drinking water supply, sewage disposal, and wastewater treatment. They have slightly increased the free chlorine levels in the drinking water as a precautionary measure, in accordance with their flood protection manual. The company emphasizes that this increase is minimal and follows the principle of necessary minimum, ensuring that the water remains safe for consumption.

Zsolt Mravik, the communications manager of the Budapest Waterworks, assured that there is no need to worry about running out of drinking water. The company has been working continuously to protect their water production facilities by surrounding them with embankments and sealing them off from floodwaters. The deepest wells, located on Margaret Island, have been taken out of water production after removing electrical equipment and hermetically sealing the wells.

According to a recent statement by the HUN-REN Ecological Research Center, Budapest is supplied with drinking water by more than 700 wells along the Danube, which are diverse in their locations. This diversity allows the majority of the wells to continue providing drinking water even during a flood event. The Danube’s riverbed filtration system is so effective that it can significantly purify the water even under extreme hydrological conditions.

The Budapest Waterworks, with its 1,500 employees, is working around the clock to ensure the safety of the city’s water supply. The experience gained from previous floods, particularly the record water levels in 2013, and the flood protection investments made since then, have greatly contributed to the company’s ability to maintain a secure supply.

As Budapest braces for the prolonged flood peak, the city remains vigilant and prepared. The authorities urge residents to stay away from flooded areas and to look out for each other during this challenging time.

Sept 21, 2024 09:40 PM

The Danube River crested at 830 centimeters at 5 a.m. on Saturday and has been receding since then.

The Batthyány Square underpass in Budapest was closed on Friday due to the rising Danube, with Metro Line 2 trains passing through the station without stopping. On Saturday, the day the flood peaked, the underpass was surrounded by sandbags.

Mayor Karácsony stated that although the water level is now lower than it was in the morning, and the worst is over, there are still many tasks ahead. The city plans to continue flood protection investments using EU funds along the Római Part and on the Újpest side.

The Népszigeti Island has also been closed to traffic. Public transportation has been affected, with the metro not stopping at Batthyány Square and tram services along the Danube being restricted for safety reasons.

Despite the challenges posed by the flood, Budapest has reportedly performed well in terms of protection efforts, with recent flood protection investments proving effective. The water supply in the city remains unaffected, although some vulnerable wells along the river have been closed.

As the water levels gradually decrease in the coming days, Budapest will continue its efforts to mitigate the impact of the flood and ensure the safety of its residents.

Sept 22, 2024 02:10 PM

Budapest has recently experienced a significant flood, with the Danube River reaching its peak on Saturday morning. Although the water level is now receding by approximately 4 centimeters per hour, the flood alert remains in place, particularly in areas south of the capital, such as Halásztelek, Lakihegy, and Szigetszentmiklós.

Hungary has not faced a flood of this magnitude in the past decade. While the worst is over, the National Directorate General for Water Management emphasizes the need for continued vigilance as the flood slowly recedes, putting constant extreme pressure on the dikes. The Danube is expected to fall below 800 centimeters on Sunday morning in Budapest, with the river expected to peak in Paks on Sunday night and in Baja on Monday evening.

Despite the flood, drinking water in Budapest and its agglomeration remains safe and healthy. However, around 300 wells had to be shut down due to the flood, but the necessary capacity is still available. During the flood, enhanced safety procedures are in place, including increased chlorine content, which may affect the taste of the water. It is recommended to pour the water into a jug and wait a few minutes before drinking.

The Budapest Transport Company (BKV) employees have filled approximately 10,000 sandbags with around 100 cubic meters of sand, which have been used in vulnerable locations. The most threatened area was Batthyány Square, but the metro station is expected to reopen to passengers early next week.

Margaret Island after the peak of the flood

Take a look around the shore of Margaret Island after the peak of flood on Saturday.

The Budapest Sewerage Works emphasizes the need to remain alert even during the recession days, as their colleagues continue to work tirelessly. They will also be responsible for dismantling the deployed materials once the flood has receded. The population has been thanked for their numerous donations and kind words during the flood defense efforts.

In conclusion, while the Danube has peaked and the worst of the flood is over, Budapest and the surrounding areas must remain vigilant and prepared for the tasks ahead as the water level gradually recedes.

Sept 22, 2024 04:50 PM

The water level of the Danube River in Budapest peaked at 830 cm on September 22, slightly lower than authorities had predicted. As the water level begins to recede, the Budapest Transport Company (BKK) has announced plans to gradually withdraw traffic restrictions and restore public transportation services.

Starting from September 23, the M2 metro line will once again stop at Batthyány Square station, allowing passengers to board and disembark. However, the H5 suburban railway (HÉV) will not reach Batthyány Square on this day, and passengers will need to board the HÉV at the Margaret Bridge station.

Based on current forecasts, tram lines 19 and 41 are expected to resume their full routes on September 24. Tram 19 will operate between Bécsi út / Vörösvári út and Kelenföld vasútállomás M, while tram 41 will run from Bécsi út / Vörösvári út to Kamaraerdei Ifjúsági Park via Batthyány Square.

From September 25, the H5 HÉV is expected to reach Batthyány Square once again, and the temporarily closed bicycle lane under the Margaret Bridge will also reopen.

Experts are continuously monitoring the water level and will decide on lifting the current traffic restrictions accordingly. The BKK has stated that they will inform the public about any changes as soon as possible. For the most up-to-date travel information check the BudapestGO application.

Despite the flood, authorities have managed to maintain the integrity of the dams, which are expected to withstand the immense pressure until next Thursday.

Sept 23, 2024 09:13 AM

Budapest has been experiencing a severe flood situation due to the rising water levels of the Danube River. However, after reaching its peak yesterday, the water level has started to decrease. As a result, the M2 metro line will resume stopping at Batthyány Square from Monday morning. The operation of trams 19 and 41 is expected to resume from Tuesday, while the H5 HÉV (suburban railway) is set to restart on Wednesday.

Mayor Gergely Karácsony stated on his Facebook page that the city has been protected from the flood, and efforts are now being made to restore order. The flood defense team continues to monitor the protective structures 24 hours a day, and the waterworks experts are working diligently to ensure an uninterrupted supply of drinking water during the receding flood.

Preparations are underway to restore the flooded areas. Based on current forecasts, colleagues will begin cleaning on Tuesday. While it will not be an easy task, every effort is being made to return the roads and public spaces to the people of Budapest by the second half of the week.

It is crucial to emphasize the dangers of swimming in the Danube during this flood situation. The strong currents and high water levels pose significant risks to swimmers. The water can be contaminated with debris and pollutants, making it unsafe for swimming. It is strongly advised to avoid entering the Danube River until the flood situation has completely subsided and the authorities have deemed it safe for recreational activities.

Sept 23, 2024 09:13 PM

As the water levels of the Danube River in Budapest begin to recede, the city is working diligently to restore order and clean up the affected areas. Public transportation, such as the M2 metro line and tram lines 19 and 41, are set to resume normal operations after thorough cleaning and technical inspections.

Mayor Gergely Karácsony has announced that cleanup efforts have already begun in areas where floodwaters have receded, such as Pók Street in the 3rd district and parts of Nánási Road. The city is making every effort to return the roads and public spaces to the people of Budapest by the second half of the week.

It is crucial to emphasize the dangers of swimming in the Danube during this time of flooding. The strong currents, debris, and contaminated water pose significant risks to swimmers. The water may contain harmful bacteria, chemicals, and other pollutants that can cause serious health issues. Additionally, the fast-moving water and hidden obstacles beneath the surface can lead to drowning or injuries.

The mayor has expressed gratitude to the hundreds of city employees who have participated in the flood protection efforts and continue to work on the restoration process in the aftermath of the flood.