Appeal in Hungary: Don't Wash Your Car or Water Your Lawn
- 31 Jul 2026 6:15 AM
Hungary's environment minister, László Gajdos, has urged all residents to avoid unnecessary water use over the coming days as extreme heat and drought place increasing pressure on the country's water supply system.
In a message on Facebook, the minister asked people not to refill swimming pools, wash their cars or water grass or sports fields, warning that every effort is needed to ensure sufficient drinking water remains available for everyone.
According to Gajdos, the government is working closely with state-owned water utility companies as demand reaches exceptionally high levels.
At the same time, the Danube's unusually low water level has reduced the amount of water that can be drawn from the river in some areas, increasing the risk of local supply disruptions.
The minister said the authorities are prepared to introduce tougher measures if necessary to safeguard drinking water supplies, describing access to safe drinking water as the top priority during the ongoing drought.
The appeal follows several weeks of record-breaking heat and persistent dry weather across Hungary. Water consumption has surged in many parts of the country, with officials noting that the increase in demand has not been matched by a similar rise in wastewater volumes.
They say this suggests significant amounts of treated drinking water are being used outdoors for activities such as lawn watering and car washing.
Speaking earlier this summer, Gajdos stressed that "drinking water is a precious resource" and said lawns can survive several days without watering, whereas maintaining reliable supplies of drinking water for households must take precedence.
The appeal comes as Hungary continues to face one of its most challenging drought periods in recent years, with low river levels also affecting wildlife, agriculture and even the operation of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant.
MTI Stock Photo
Source: MTI – Hungary’s national news agency since 1881.
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