Baku, September 19, AZERTAC

Hungary is now facing the most challenging stage of its flood defense efforts, according to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who provided a detailed update on the current situation during a press briefing, About Hungary reports. With floodwaters reaching their highest levels, PM Orbán assured the public that the country is well-prepared and that effective measures have been implemented to manage the situation.

"This is the most difficult stage of the defense," said the prime minister, explaining that the floodwaters are expected to take around eight days to fully pass through Hungary, exiting the country by next Thursday. PM Orbán emphasized that this critical phase will see the flood peak at lower levels than the record highs of 2013.

"The good news is that we already know the highest water level, and it won’t exceed what we faced in the past, so we are prepared for these conditions," he affirmed.

PM Orbán also highlighted the success of the flood defense system, noting that over HUF 435 billion has been invested in strengthening critical flood defenses across the country. This investment has ensured that vital protective infrastructure is robust enough to withstand the current conditions. He also assured that all flood barriers have passed their tests, and no new emergency measures are required.

Budapest remains a focal point of defense, with water levels expected to peak at 846 centimeters this weekend. This remains below the historical high of 891 centimeters, and the riverbanks are likely to reopen by the middle of next week. Prime Minister Orbán acknowledged challenges in certain areas but emphasized that necessary measures are being implemented to keep the situation under control.

The defense efforts, coordinated by both state and municipal authorities, involve nearly 4,400 individuals, including 1,677 soldiers, over 300 police officers, and numerous volunteers and firefighters.

"We have a solid team in place, and everyone is working calmly and effectively," said PM Orbán. He also highlighted the unity and cooperation on display, remarking that "in times of crisis, there's no room for politics—we must work together."

The prime minister provided updates on critical areas where teams are working tirelessly to protect both infrastructure and residents. The situation remains manageable, although continuous vigilance is required. As PM Orbán pointed out, significant improvements in flood defenses, particularly along the Danube, have minimized the need for large-scale emergency actions in some areas.

In his concluding remarks, PM Orbán stressed the importance of staying focused and avoiding complacency: "We will manage to guide the water safely out of the country without any major danger or trouble, but we need to remain calm and focused. While this task is familiar to us, it still requires serious attention. If we stay sharp, there will be no problems—Hungary will handle this too," the prime minister reassured the public.