“The flood is expected to peak along the Lajta River in Mosonmagyaróvár today, marking the river’s highest recorded water levels. Similarly, the Danube will peak in the Dunaremete region later today,” PM Orbán said. He also noted that the slow recession of water levels observed in Austria indicates prolonged defense efforts will be required.
“Even after the water reaches its peak, we must stay vigilant,” PM Orbán warned. “The slow decline presents a risk, with phenomena such as sand boils potentially damaging the dikes,” he said.
The prime minister reassured the public that, for the next week, no significant rainfall is expected, which will aid efforts in controlling the flood. However, preparations continue in high-risk areas. “The flood crest is forecasted to exit the southern part of the country by mid-next week,” he stated, adding that “by then, the riverbanks in Budapest should also be reopened.”
More than 1,900 soldiers are actively involved in defense operations, with an additional 200 mobilized today. Thousands of volunteers, including 4,012 participants yesterday, continue to bolster efforts along the flood defenses, along with police officers, prisoners, and firefighters. “Hungary has learned the art of defense,” PM Orbán added, commending the disciplined and organized response from citizens.
Discussing the capital, the prime minister reported that flood defenses around Budapest are fully in place, with the protection system reaching 100% completion. “Budapest is safe,” he assured. Elsewhere, particularly in the Danube Bend, the situation has also improved, with most areas achieving over 90% protection. “The defense work in Nagymaros has been exceptional, and despite the serious situation, there are no shortages of personnel or equipment,” PM Orbán confirmed.
On international cooperation, the Prime Minister remarked that Hungary has officially requested assistance from the European Union to aid in flood recovery. “But,” he added, “if we waited for Brussels to save us, we’d be waist-deep in water by now.”
Although Hungary's annual budget has allocated sufficient funds for defense efforts, PM Orbán stated that the total compensation for flood damage would only be calculated after the waters recede.
Looking ahead, PM Orbán emphasized the need for permanent flood defense systems in certain vulnerable areas. “Building mobile flood barriers in Kismaros and other sections will give us peace of mind, securing the entire country from Budapest to the western border,” he concluded.