"We have hope that the floodwaters on the Danube may recede earlier, but we still have to endure five hard days," Prime Minister Orbán explained. In some areas, such as Szigetköz, water levels have already dropped by a meter, signaling that the worst is over there. However, in other regions, the situation remains critical.
The prime minister highlighted the scale of ongoing efforts, noting that the defense operations span 755 kilometers, with first successes already achieved. The highest water levels are currently being observed at Vác, with Budapest next in line to face the peak. He confirmed that water levels in the capital are expected to be 59 centimeters lower than the record set in 2013, matching earlier forecasts from water management authorities.
Prime Minister Orbán reassured the public that flood defenses in Budapest are functioning smoothly. "The cooperation between the state and municipal defense systems in the capital is excellent, and together, we are fully capable of protecting the city," he said, adding that the riverbanks should reopen by early next week, a few days earlier than initially planned.
Defense efforts remain robust, with 900 soldiers actively engaged and additional reinforcements from the water management sector mobilized. On Friday, 5,344 individuals participated in flood defenses, but fewer personnel are now required with the situation stabilizing in some areas. There are currently 1,786 volunteers working, down from 2,753 the previous day. Prime Minister Orbán emphasized that while fewer hands are needed, vigilance must remain high.
Pilismarót remains a focal point after a dyke shift, which led to a 16-hour battle involving divers who successfully stabilized the structure. At Vác, sewage pits caused a disturbance, but the situation had been quickly brought under control. Other critical areas include Ercsi, Kisapostag, Dunaföldvár, and Paks, all of which remain fully fortified with sandbags and 100% prepared.
The prime minister urged the public not to gather along the riverbanks during the flood’s peak, as this could disrupt defense operations. "We must remain fully attentive," he stressed, calling for sustained focus over the coming days.
In response to questions regarding potential EU support, Prime Minister Orbán was pragmatic. "In a crisis like this, we can only rely on ourselves," he remarked, downplaying the immediate likelihood of financial aid from the European Union. Referring to prior experiences with EU funding for border protection, the prime minister suggested that any aid would likely be delayed and uncertain. "The focus now is on controlling the flood; we can think about EU support afterward," he said.
It was also outlined that success would be achieved once Hungary safely navigated the most dangerous sections of the flood. "When the slow recession of water shows that the threat has passed, we can finally relax," he said. Compared to neighboring countries, PM Orbán noted that Hungary has had more time to prepare, placing the country in a stronger position for flood defense.
Looking ahead, the flood's peak is expected in Baja by Monday, according to water management forecasts. After the floodwaters recede, the dismantling of state protective structures will begin, with the help of residents and volunteers.