Hungary’s 540 km Defence Effort Against Near-Record Flood Levels
Hungary is currently facing the biggest flood since 2013, with record near-record water levels in several places. However, the country’s flood defence capabilities have significantly improved over the past few years, with 150 billion forints (EUR 380.4m) worth of development projects completed since 2013.
The peak water levels are expected to exceed last week’s levels by 6-6.5 meters in various regions, and rivers will carry 400 percent more water at their peak this week. The flood defence system has been upgraded with the construction of facilities to help with flood defence, the building of rainwater storages, and the clean-up of riverbeds.
Flood defence operations are currently underway along a 390km river section and at 35 settlements, coordinated by local mayors and supported by disaster management and water management authorities. Police have dispatched officers to assist with road closures and filling sandbags, while schools, health-care, and social institutions continue to operate uninterrupted.
The head of Hungary’s Water Management Directorate, István Láng, stated that the Danube is expected to peak at a level 30-50cm below the level of the 2013 flood. Additionally, the Leitha river is forecasted to peak at Mosonmagyaróvár on Wednesday night.
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán announced that flood defence operations are underway along 540 kilometers of Hungary’s rivers, with the highest, third-degree alert in place along 200 kilometers. The situation along the Leitha river has required the dispatch of over 800 experts to the affected areas, where they are working in cooperation with Hungarian troops.
PM Orbán approved the opening of an emergency reservoir along the Leitha river to prevent water from breaking through the primary defence lines and ensure the safety of residents in the region. Meanwhile, Budapest Fidesz is calling for free public transport in the city during the flood closure of embankments along the Danube.
As the situation continues to evolve, the government and local authorities are working together to protect residents and minimize the impact of the ongoing floods in Hungary.
