In recent days, the ice on Lake Balaton and Lake Velence has finally thickened enough to allow skating. Winter sports enthusiasts can now enjoy one of the most popular winter pastimes on these frozen lakes.
On the southern shore of Lake Balaton, the ice near the shore has continued to thicken, reaching a thickness of 12-15 centimeters, says a statement released by the police on Friday. However, it may still be dangerous to step onto the ice on the northern shore of the lake, as the water there began to freeze later. On the northern shore, the ice is typically between 8 and 12 centimeters thick, therefore the ice layer is not yet sufficiently solid in all places.
Boats on Lake Velence near Pákozd after snowfall on January 6, 2026. Photo: MTI/Vasvári Tamás
The most fundamental rule for staying safe on ice is to step onto open water only when it is solid, stable, and not melting or moving.
Based on practical experience, the ice on standing waters can be considered sufficiently solid if its thickness reaches or exceeds 10 centimeters and its structure is steel-like and of good quality.
Stepping on the ice is now permitted on Lake Velence and the southern shore of Lake Balaton, provided the following safety rules are observed:
- Stay on the ice only very close to the shore (within 50-70 meters) and in areas where the water is shallow to reduce the risk of falling through.
- Do not step on ice in the area of ports and mooring places.
- Only go onto the ice along the shore during daylight hours and in good visibility conditions.
- If possible, do not go onto the ice alone, only with companions.
- Do not drive vehicles onto the ice.
- Carry a fully charged mobile phone in case you need to call for help in an emergency.
The police warn that it is still dangerous to go onto open ice surfaces far from the shore. This is due to the unreliable and unpredictable ice thickness and quality, as well as the natural thinning caused by cracks and small heat sources, that are inherent to the nature of open water lakes.
A ferry travels across the frozen Lake Balaton near Szántód (southern shore) on January 10, 2026. Photo: MTI/Vasvári Tamás
Based on the current weather forecast, a significant cold snap is expected next week, that will further strengthen the ice on the lakes.
In the event of an accident, it is important NOT to take a person rescued from icy water to an overheated, warm place immediately, but to remove their icy clothing and then gradually try to warm their body. Such persons must always receive medical attention.
Swans on the frozen Lake Balaton near Szántód on January 10, 2026. Photo: MTI/Vasvári Tamás
In order to prevent accidents caused by ice breakage, police officers are stepping up enforcement of the rules for being on the ice. Violations of the rules may result in a warning from a police officer, public space supervisor, fisheries guard, or authorized representative of a professional disaster management agency, on the spot fines ranging from 6,500 to 65,000 forints (17-170 euros) – or up to 90,000 forints (235 euros) in the case of repeat offenses. In some cases, they may also initiate administrative proceedings, in which fines of up to 200,000 forints (520 euros) may be imposed.
If you notice any ice-related hazards (breaking ice, sinking), or find yourself in trouble, call 112 or the Balaton Water Police Station’s toll-free emergency number 1817.
Via police.hu, Featured image: Pixabay
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