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A heat map was made of the counties where most people died during the heatwaves

Researchers from the Eötvös Loránd University’s Meteorological Department analyzed data from 2015 to 2025 to determine which Hungarian counties experienced the highest excess mortality during heatwaves. The study used data from HungaroMet, the Central Statistical Office (KSH), and the National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK). While Csongrád-Csanád, Békés, and Bács-Kiskun counties recorded the most heatwave days, these areas did not show the highest increase in deaths. Instead, Tolna, Baranya, Jász-Nagykun-Szolnok, and Budapest showed higher rates of excess mortality. In contrast, Csongrád-Csanád had lower excess mortality, possibly due to better adaptation and a higher rate of air-conditioned homes. During the intense July 2024 heatwave, Budapest saw a 34% increase in deaths compared to the average for May–September. Researchers emphasized the need for improved preparedness and long-term adjustments in healthcare, social services, and urban planning to reduce health risks from more frequent heatwaves.