Rare Ice Spectacle at Frozen Balaton in Hungary

Lake Balaton, Hungary's largest freshwater lake, has recently frozen over completely for the first time since 2017, creating a rare winter spectacle.

This phenomenon occurred after several days of severe frost with temperatures dropping below -10°C, allowing a continuous ice sheet to form despite initial disruptions from strong winds.

Near the southern shores in areas like Zamárdi and Siófok, ice thickness reached 12–15 cm by mid-January 2026, enabling hundreds of locals to skate safely, though authorities warned of unstable patches elsewhere and urged caution.

Ferry services between Szántód and Tihany continued operating as ice floes did not yet block navigation.