For the first time in nine years, Lake Balaton is once again covered by a continuous layer of ice.
Due to the prolonged cold weather of recent weeks, a solid ice sheet has formed on Hungary’s largest lake. Over the past few days—especially along the southern shore—the ice has become thick enough in places to walk on.
Many people took advantage of this rare opportunity over the weekend. These moments were captured by MTI photographer Tamás Vasvári, who took the photos near Zamárdi.
Experts, however, urge extreme caution. Strong winds can cause the ice to crack and open up in several areas. When these gaps refreeze during the next cold spell, the ice there may remain significantly thinner and therefore more dangerous.
In the coming days, Hungary is expected to experience severe nighttime frosts, with temperatures dropping below minus 10 degrees Celsius across much of the country.
We have previously written about things to do around Lake Balaton in winter—although at the time, we did not factor in a completely frozen lake.
