Hungary’s water under stress: Lake Balaton is seeing a rare “rain cloud” look on weather radar, but experts say it’s actually a massive evening emergence of Balaton midges (Chironomus balatonicus), with swarms visible as precipitation-like interference from shortly after 9 PM until around midnight. Heat and storms risk: HungaroMet warns of a cold front bringing thunderstorms, damaging winds and hail across Hungary, with severe cells possible Sunday afternoon. Forests and land use: Hungary’s standing timber volume rose by nearly 4 million cubic meters in 2025, with forest area slightly increasing and black locust remaining the largest species by area. Pollution policy shake-up: The government plans stricter environmental rules and a broader corporate tax overhaul that could hit polluters and reshape incentives for EV and battery firms, with Chinese manufacturers flagged as likely most affected. EU rule-of-law pressure: The European Commission’s 2026 Rule of Law Report shows limited follow-through on reforms, while civil groups warn media freedom and civic space still need stronger protection. Biodiversity and tourism links: A European bathing-water review highlights Hungary among countries with fewer sites rated “excellent,” underlining ongoing water-quality challenges for summer recreation.