Why do sandbanks appear in Lake Balaton? 🌊

The water level of Lake Balaton has visibly decreased in recent weeks, and more and more sandbanks and muddy surfaces are appearing in the lake's coastal areas. Due to the extremely dry weather, the lake's appearance has changed significantly, which is noticeable to both locals and lakeside vacationers.

At the Siófoki water gauge, the 39 centimeters measured in the morning is only 16 centimeters away from the lowest ever recorded value. This record was set in October 2003, when the water level dropped to 23 centimeters. The current decrease has made those sandbanks visible to the naked eye that are usually submerged.

Boaters and harbor operators urge increased caution. The shallower parts and the emerged reefs pose a serious risk to water traffic, especially for smaller boats and sailboats. The image of the coastal promenades and beaches in the settlements around Lake Balaton is also changing.

Water management experts are continuously monitoring the situation, but for a significant rise, prolonged, substantial precipitation would be needed in the catchment area. The ecological balance seems stable for now, however, the persistently low water level reminds us that the Lake Balaton region is also reacting more sensitively to longer dry periods 🌊.

Source: idokep.hu