The previous heat record in the capital for July 31 had been 37.4C, measured at the Torokvesz and Gellerthegy stations in 1921.

HungaroMet added that while the national record was not broken, the existing one was equalled. In addition to the Ujpest measurement, the Gyor-Likocs station also recorded 39.4C, matching the previous national record for this date, which was set in 1917 in Szerep.

The record came during Hungary's ongoing third-degree heat alert, with health authorities continuing to warn people to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours, stay hydrated, and check on elderly relatives and neighbours.

The prolonged heatwave is putting pressure on infrastructure, with temporary speed restrictions introduced on some railway lines because extreme temperatures can cause rails to expand and buckle.

Meteorologists say tropical nights, when temperatures remain above 20°C after dark, are becoming more common during Hungary's summer heatwaves, offering little overnight relief in urban areas.

This new record is the latest in a string of extremes this summer, following several other daily weather records set in recent weeks, underlining the exceptional nature of this year's heat.

Budapest's all-time highest recorded temperature remains 40.7°C, measured on 20 July 2007.

Photo: Hungaromet

Source: MTI – Hungary’s national news agency since 1881.

*********************************************************************************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters