‼️WARNING‼️ 31 July – 7 August 2026
In view of the nationwide heat alert, the Börzsöny Mountain Rescue Service would like to warn hikers that extremely hot weather is also expected in the Börzsöny Mountains over the coming days. Although many people head to the mountains in search of cooler conditions, temperatures of around or above 35°C are expected even at higher elevations, while hikers on exposed ridges may experience an even greater heat load due to direct sunlight.
‼️Wildfires are devastating areas across Europe, and the risk of fire is increasing as the forests of the Börzsöny become extremely dry. We would like to remind all hikers that A FIRE BAN IS CURRENTLY IN EFFECT, which means that lighting fires is prohibited even at designated fire pits and campfire sites! Under the current conditions, we strongly urge everyone to take the fire ban extremely seriously.‼️
The Börzsöny Mountain Rescue Service therefore issues the following safety advice:
☀️ Risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Extreme heat is particularly dangerous for young children, elderly people, those with cardiovascular conditions and people who are not accustomed to regular hiking. In hot weather, the body becomes exhausted much more quickly and concentration deteriorates, increasing the risk of accidents.
We strongly advise people with cardiovascular conditions, children and inexperienced hikers not to head towards Nagy-Hideg-hegy or Csóványos simply in the hope of finding cooler conditions at higher elevations. The climb can be extremely demanding in this heat, and temperatures of 30–35°C may still be waiting for you at higher elevations.
💧 Dehydration
Make sure you drink enough fluids both before setting out and throughout your hike. For a longer hike, carry at least 2–3 litres of drinking water per person — and in this extreme heat, carrying up to twice that amount may be advisable.
Do not wait until you feel thirsty before drinking.
🥾 Plan your hike carefully
Whenever possible, start early in the morning. During the hottest part of the day, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., avoid long climbs and exposed ridges.
Consider choosing shorter routes through shaded valleys instead.
🧢 Protect yourself from the sun
Wear light-coloured, breathable clothing that provides adequate protection from the sun, as well as a cap or hat. Use high-SPF sunscreen and remember to wear sunglasses.
⏱️ Do not underestimate your journey time
Extreme heat can significantly slow your progress. If you find that the hike is becoming much more difficult than expected, turn back in good time rather than continuing until you become exhausted.
📱 Before setting out
Check the weather forecast.
Fully charge your mobile phone.
Tell someone your planned route.
Whenever possible, avoid setting out alone on a longer hike.
If someone develops dizziness, confusion, a severe headache, nausea or altered consciousness, these may be signs of serious heat-related illness. Move the person to a shaded area immediately and begin cooling them. If necessary, call the 112 emergency number and/or contact the Mountain Rescue Service without delay.
The Börzsöny is beautiful even in these conditions, but summer heat can present a serious challenge even for experienced hikers. Please plan your trip particularly carefully during this period and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
A figyelmeztetések a Börzsönyi Hegyimentő Szolgálat és Nagy László, az Ipoly Erdő Zrt. munkatársának, az Erdészeti Lapok főszerkesztőjének közreműködésével készülnek
