Budapest Danube River
Due to the recent flooding (September 14-24, 2024), we are providing additional data for our visitors, including 24-hour water level updates.
24-Hour Danube Levels (Duna)
Flood Warning Levels
The Danube River in Budapest has specific flood warning levels set by Hungarian water authorities to help monitor and manage potential flooding.
These levels are determined by the water height at the Budapest gauge near the Chain Bridge. You can watch the Danube in real-time through the Budapest webcam feeds.
Level 1: Yellow Alert
A yellow alert (Flood Preparedness) is issued when the water level reaches 620 cm (6.2 meters).
This is the first warning level, where authorities start closely monitoring the river and preparing for possible flooding. No immediate action is needed at this point, but the situation is being carefully watched.
Level 2: Orange Alert
The orange alert (Moderate Flood Risk) is triggered when the water rises to 700 cm (7.0 meters).
At this stage, some low-lying areas along the riverbanks may start to flood. Authorities may begin taking action, such as putting up temporary flood barriers to protect vulnerable areas.
Level 3: Red Alert
A red alert (Severe Flood Risk) is issued when the water level reaches 800 cm (8.0 meters).
This is the most serious warning, indicating a high risk of major flooding. At this point, full flood defenses are put in place, and evacuations of at-risk areas may be considered to keep people safe.
Alsó Rakpart: Lower Embankment
The "alsó rakpart" line refers to the lower embankment along the Danube in Budapest. When the water reaches this level (645 cm), it can flood the roads and pathways along the riverbanks, often leading to closures.
LNV: Highest Recorded Water Level
LNV stands for "Legnagyobb Vízoszlop", meaning the highest water level ever recorded on the Danube in Budapest (891 cm). It serves as a reference point to compare current water levels to past floods.
Budapest and the Danube
Budapest, the capital city of Hungary, is located in the central part of Europe. It is bisected by the Danube river, which separates the hilly Buda district on the west bank from the flat Pest district on the east bank.
The Danube river is one of the most important rivers in Europe. It originates in Germany's Black Forest and flows through 10 countries, including Hungary, before emptying into the Black Sea.
In Budapest, the Danube is crossed by several beautiful bridges, including the iconic Chain Bridge, which is one of the city's most famous landmarks.
Danube River Water Levels
The current water level in the city center of Budapest (along the Danube) is 373 cm, last recorded on 10/5/2024.
This chart provides hourly updates of water levels in centimeters for the Danube River in Budapest.The current water flow in Budapest is 3171 m3/s and the temperature today is 13.7 Celsius.
The water levels in the Danube are generally unpredictable, but fortunately, Hungary's biggest river usually experiences moderate water level changes, making it an ideal location for cruising.
Temperature and Water Flow
This chart displays the water temperature and flow rate of the Danube River in Budapest, measured in cubic meters per second (m³/s).Low and high tide
Low water levels typically occur at the end of a hot summer, while high water levels usually happen during the spring months.
This is because all the snow is melting in the mountains, causing rivers to carry extra water to the Danube. These changes in water level can impact the cruising experience.
Dinner cruises
Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner cruise or a sightseeing tour, Budapest has many options for cruising on the Danube.
Many of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Fisherman's Bastion, and Buda Castle, can be seen from the water, making a river cruise a great way to experience the city's beauty.
Last 10 Hours: Water Levels
Get hour-by-hour updates on water levels over the past 10 hours, providing a clear view of recent changes in the Danube's conditions.
9 PM | 368 cm 0.27% |
10 PM | 370 cm 0.54% |
11 PM | 372 cm 0.54% |
12 AM | 372 cm 0% |
1 AM | 373 cm 0.27% |
2 AM | 374 cm 0.27% |
3 AM | 375 cm 0.27% |
4 AM | 377 cm 0.53% |
5 AM | 379 cm 0.53% |
6 AM | 380 cm 0.26% |
Danube Water Level Forecast
View a 5-day forecast of Danube water levels to help you stay prepared.
Mon, Oct 7, 7 PM | 406 cm 6.84% |
Tue, Oct 8, 7 PM | 394 cm -2.96% |
Wed, Oct 9, 7 PM | 376 cm -4.57% |
Thu, Oct 10, 7 PM | 363 cm -3.46% |
Fri, Oct 11, 7 AM | 363 cm 0% |