Szeged Climate & Monthly Temperature Overview – Hungary

Summer Season:

Szeged experiences warm and sunny summers, with average temperatures ranging from 23°C (73°F) in May to 29°C (84°F) in July and August. The humidity is generally low, and the air is often clear. The summer months are ideal for outdoor activities, such as swimming, cycling, or exploring the city’s numerous parks and gardens. The average hours of sunshine during this period are between 7 and 9 per day.

Spring and Autumn Seasons:

Spring and autumn in Szeged are both pleasant seasons, with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Spring generally begins in March, with temperatures gradually rising to around 18°C (64°F) by May. The skies are clear and sunny, and the days are ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn arrives in October, and temperatures gradually cool to an average of 12°C (54°F) by November. The leaves of the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a beautiful landscape.

Seasonal Temperature Variations

Szeged, Hungary experiences distinct seasonal temperature variations throughout the year. The warmest months are July and August, with average temperatures hovering around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). During these months, the city enjoys ample sunshine and warm, humid conditions, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Conversely, the coldest months are December and January, when temperatures average around 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). The city experiences regular snowfall during these months, and temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing. The winter season requires warm clothing and precautions against the cold.

Spring and Autumn Temperatures

Spring and autumn in Szeged offer a pleasant transition between the contrasting temperatures of summer and winter. In the spring months (March to May), temperatures gradually increase, ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). This period brings a revival of nature, with blooming flowers and lush vegetation.

Autumn (September to November) presents a similar pattern with temperatures gradually decreasing. The average temperatures during these months range from 15 to 5 degrees Celsius (59 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). As the leaves change color and fall from the trees, the city takes on a picturesque autumnal charm.

Cloud Types and Impact on Weather

Szeged, Hungary experiences a variety of cloud types throughout the year. Cirrus clouds, composed of ice crystals, are common during fair weather and appear as wispy, hair-like streaks. Cumulus clouds, characterized by their puffy, cotton-like appearance, indicate summery conditions and may develop into rain-bearing cumulonimbus clouds. Stratus clouds, a gray, uniform layer that often covers the entire sky, typically bring overcast conditions and a risk of drizzle.

The presence and type of clouds play a significant role in Szeged’s weather patterns. Cumulonimbus clouds, towering thunderstorms that can produce heavy rainfall, hail, or lightning, are common during the summer months. In contrast, stratus clouds often result in overcast and dreary weather, with limited sunlight and potential for light rain or drizzle. Cirrus clouds, on the other hand, tend to indicate stable weather conditions and little chance of precipitation.

Annual Precipitation Distribution

Szeged, located in southeastern Hungary, experiences a humid continental climate with annual precipitation of around 550 millimeters (22 inches). Precipitation is distributed relatively evenly throughout the year, with two slightly wetter periods: one in spring and one in autumn. During these seasons, average monthly rainfall amounts range from 40 to 60 millimeters (1.6 to 2.4 inches). The driest months are typically January and February, with an average of 30 millimeters (1.2 inches) each.

Precipitation Variability and Extremes

While the annual precipitation in Szeged is relatively stable, there can be significant variability from year to year. Occasionally, prolonged periods of drought or intense rainfall events can occur. For instance, in 2012, Szeged experienced a severe drought, with annual precipitation falling well below the average. Conversely, in 2019, the city was hit by flash flooding due to heavy rainfall, leading to localized flooding and disruptions. The variability of precipitation poses challenges for water management and agriculture in the region.

Seasonal Rainfall Variation

Szeged, Hungary experiences significant seasonal variation in rainfall. The wettest season is summer, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring in June. During this month, the average rainfall is around 65 mm. The driest period is winter, with the least rainfall occurring in February, when the average rainfall is around 30 mm. The difference in rainfall between the wettest and driest months is approximately 35 mm.

Annual Rainfall Distribution

The average annual rainfall in Szeged is around 550 mm. This amount of rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, with moderate rainfall occurring during most months. However, there is a slight increase in rainfall during the summer months, and a slight decrease in rainfall during the winter months. Overall, the distribution of rainfall in Szeged is favorable for both agricultural and human activities.

Impact of Snowfall on Szeged

Szeged, Hungary, is known for its mild winters, with snowfall being a relatively rare occurrence. However, when snowfall does occur, it can have significant impacts on the city’s infrastructure and daily life. Heavy snowfall can block roads, disrupt transportation, and make it difficult for people to get around. In severe cases, snowfall can even lead to power outages and other disruptions to essential services.

To mitigate the effects of snowfall, Szeged has a number of snow removal measures in place. These measures include snow plowing, salting, and the use of snow blowers. The city also has a fleet of emergency vehicles that can be deployed to help stranded motorists and clear snow from critical areas. In addition, special snow removal teams are deployed to clear snow from schools, hospitals, and other essential locations.

Sun Exposure in Szeged, Hungary

Szeged, a vibrant city in southeastern Hungary, enjoys ample sunlight throughout the year. The city’s location on the Great Hungarian Plain provides unobstructed exposure to the sun’s rays. During the summer months, Szeged experiences long days with up to 16 hours of sunlight. The average daily sunshine duration in July and August exceeds 10 hours. This extended sun exposure creates an ideal environment for outdoor activities, such as swimming, cycling, and sunbathing.

Health Benefits and Precautions

The abundance of sunshine in Szeged offers numerous health benefits. Exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health, immune system function, and overall well-being. It also helps regulate circadian rhythms and improves mood. However, excessive sun exposure can also pose health risks. Prolonged exposure without proper protection can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, and eye damage. To minimize these risks, residents of Szeged are advised to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing when spending extended periods outdoors. They should also seek shade during the peak hours of sunlight, typically between 10 am and 4 pm.

Lunar Observation in Szeged, Hungary

Szeged, a vibrant city nestled in southern Hungary, offers a captivating opportunity to observe the celestial wonder of the Moon. With its minimal light pollution and generally clear skies, the city provides an ideal setting for amateur and seasoned astronomers alike.

During clear evenings, the Moon hangs majestically in the night sky, casting a soft glow over the city’s historic buildings and tranquil parks. Its pristine surface reveals intricate craters, vast seas, and towering mountains, each holding a unique story of its ancient origins. Through telescopes and binoculars, observers can delve into the lunar landscape, marveling at the intricate details that shape its celestial tapestry. The Moon’s ever-changing phases, from the delicate crescent to the radiant full Moon, add to the captivating experience of lunar observation in Szeged.

Relative Humidity in Szeged, Hungary

The city of Szeged, Hungary, experiences relatively high humidity levels throughout the year. On average, the annual relative humidity in Szeged is around 75%, with higher humidity levels during the spring and summer months. The highest humidity levels occur in May and June, with average values around 85%. During these months, the air can feel muggy and uncomfortable, especially during the warmer hours of the day.

Conversely, the winter months in Szeged are characterized by lower humidity levels. January and February have average relative humidity values around 60%, making the air feel drier and less oppressive. The lowest humidity levels occur in February, when the average relative humidity drops to around 55%. During this time, the air can become quite dry, leading to chapped lips and dry skin.

Wind Conditions in Szeged

Szeged, Hungary, experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The city’s wind patterns are influenced by its location on the Great Hungarian Plain, which is exposed to prevailing winds from the west and northwest. On average, Szeged receives moderate to strong winds throughout the year, with wind speeds ranging from 10 to 15 miles per hour.

During the summer months, winds tend to be lighter and more variable in direction, with occasional gusts of up to 20 miles per hour. The prevailing wind direction during this time is from the southwest, bringing warm and humid air from the Mediterranean Sea. In contrast, during the winter months, winds become stronger and more persistent, with frequent gusts exceeding 25 miles per hour. The prevailing wind direction during winter is from the northwest, bringing cold and dry air from Central Europe.

Spring (March-May)

Spring is an enchanting season to visit Szeged. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. The city comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, transforming it into a vibrant tapestry. The renowned Szeged Open-Air Festival, held from mid-April to early-May, offers a captivating blend of classical and folk music, filling the city with melodious tunes. This time of year also marks the beginning of the boating season, allowing visitors to explore the scenic Tisza River.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Szeged is characterized by warm and sunny days. Temperatures can reach up to 30°C, perfect for outdoor activities. The city’s numerous parks and green spaces provide respite from the heat, while the Tisza River offers refreshing swimming spots. One of the highlights of summer is the Szeged International Theatre Festival, featuring performances from renowned Hungarian and international companies. The city also hosts a vibrant food festival showcasing traditional Hungarian cuisine and local delicacies.

Solar Resource Assessment

Szeged receives abundant solar radiation, with an average of 2,100 sunshine hours per year. The city lies in the Pannonian Plain, which benefits from a relatively dry and sunny climate. The average daily solar radiation in Szeged ranges from 3.5 kWh/m² in December to 6 kWh/m² in June. This substantial solar resource makes Szeged an ideal location for the development of solar energy projects.

Solar Energy Projects

Recognizing the solar potential of the region, the city of Szeged has embraced solar energy development. In 2011, the city installed its first major solar power plant, a 1.5 MW photovoltaic array located on the roof of the Szeged Sports and Conference Center. Since then, several other solar projects have been implemented, including a 10 MW photovoltaic park on the southern outskirts of the city. These projects have significantly increased Szeged’s solar energy capacity and contributed to the city’s commitment to renewable energy sources.

Flat and Low-lying Landscape

Szeged is located on the Great Hungarian Plain, known for its generally flat topography. The city and its surroundings exhibit a gradual slope towards the south, with the elevation decreasing from approximately 80 meters in the northern part to around 70 meters in the south. The absence of significant hills or mountains contributes to Szeged’s characteristic flat and low-lying landscape. This topography facilitates the flow of rivers and streams through the region, contributing to the city’s abundant water resources.

Floodplains and River Terraces

The topography of Szeged has been influenced by the meandering Tisza River, which has created a network of floodplains and river terraces. The Tisza River’s frequent flooding has deposited sediment along its banks, resulting in the formation of elevated terraces that rise above the floodplain. These terraces provide natural flood protection and have been utilized for settlement and agricultural purposes throughout history. The largest river terrace in Szeged is known as the Napfénytelep, which lies on the right bank of the Tisza River and hosts a significant portion of the city’s population.

Szeged Airport (SZG)

Szeged Airport (SZG) is the designated civil airport serving Szeged, Hungary, and its surrounding region. It is located approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) northwest of the city center. The airport has a single asphalt runway, designated 09/27, which is 1,410 meters (4,626 feet) long and 60 meters (197 feet) wide. Szeged Airport is primarily used for private and general aviation and does not currently offer commercial passenger services.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is the primary international airport serving Budapest, Hungary, located approximately 170 kilometers (106 miles) northwest of Szeged. It is the largest airport in Hungary and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights. BUD has three passenger terminals and two runways, making it capable of handling a significant volume of air traffic. Multiple airlines operate from BUD, connecting passengers to both European and intercontinental destinations. The airport offers a wide range of amenities and services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and transportation options. From Szeged, there are various modes of transportation available to reach BUD, such as train, bus, or car, with travel time typically ranging from 2 to 3 hours.

Historical Significance

Szeged, Hungary, is a city with a rich and storied past. It was first established by the Romans in the 1st century AD as Partiscum. During the Middle Ages, Szeged was an important trading center and a strategic stronghold on the border with the Ottoman Empire. In 1526, the city fell to the Ottomans and remained under their control for 150 years. During this period, Szeged developed a distinctive Ottoman architectural style, which can still be seen in many of the city’s historic buildings. In 1686, Szeged was liberated from Ottoman rule and became a thriving commercial and cultural center in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Modern Szeged

Today, Szeged is a modern and vibrant city with a population of over 160,000. It is known for its beautiful architecture, its lively cultural scene, and its excellent educational institutions. The city is home to the University of Szeged, one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Hungary. Szeged is also a hub for business and industry, with strong sectors including pharmaceuticals, electronics, and food processing. The city is also a popular tourist destination, thanks to its rich history, its beautiful riverfront promenade, and its many thermal baths.