Based on the repeatedly amended 46/2001. (XII. 27) BM regulation, storm forecasting and warning services operate on Lake Balaton, Lake Velence, Lake Tisza, and Lake Fertő from April 1st to October 31st every year.

Important information:

Monitoring storm warnings is important for the safety of ourselves and our families, whether it’s for vacation, relaxation, recreational activities, or boating. Lake Balaton and our larger lakes generally have their own meteorological ecosystems, which are different and unfold differently from what we are accustomed to. Storm warning started first on Lake Balaton on July 8, 1934, when, on the initiative of Colonel Alfred Hille, a meteorologist, the government made the decision to launch it. The system, initially consisting of 15 warning stations, used cannons and red signal baskets hoisted on masts to indicate the approach of a storm. Today, more than 50 stations indicate the approach of storms. On Lake Balaton, modern flashing units using LED technology are employed, while on Lake Tisza, rotating lamp fixtures are used for effective signaling.

First-level Storm Warning

(45 yellow flashes per minute) On such occasions, the following should be observed:

• Swimming, bathing, using inflatable and other swimming equipment (SUP, inflatable boat, air mattress, etc.), riding water bicycles, and boating are only allowed within 500 meters from the shore.
• Locally, it is necessary to inquire about the locations of the storm warning stations; information boards placed at bathing sites and local bathing regulations can help with this.
• Weak swimmers should only bathe in shallow water.
• Do not attempt to swim after an inflatable boat, air mattress, or other similar equipment if the wind has taken it away. It is not worth risking our lives for a few thousand forints.

Second-level Storm Warning

(90 yellow flashes per minute) On such occasions, the following should be observed:

• This indicates the imminent arrival of a potentially life-threatening storm for us or our family members, so swimming is prohibited.
• We should aim to get to the shore as quickly as possible in safety.
• Boating, water cycling, and using any other swimming equipment (SUP, inflatable boat, air mattress, etc.) is prohibited.
• The water will likely "mist" (the air above the water surface may have 80-90% humidity at a height of 40-50 cm).
• Waves will increase, significantly increasing the danger of drifting away or swallowing water.
• Particularly pay attention to children, as after the second-level warning is issued, the storm will arrive in a short time, which could be life-threatening not only for them but for us as well.

It is in all of our interest to follow the above rules and warnings!

Balatronk is a community radio system created as part of the Balaton Information and Emergency Call System (BISR) to enhance the safety of people on the water. It was developed by the RSOE (Radio Emergency and Information Communication National Association) and began being installed in 1998-1999, modeled after the Danube system.

The system primarily serves to support water rescue, water police, and community communication. It consists of multiple base stations, which can be accessed via dedicated devices. This user group is provided with the ability to engage in group communication, individual calls, emergency calls, as well as the transmission of traffic and weather information. The Balatrönk system also plays an important role during events on Lake Balaton, such as sailing races and lake swimming events.

The Balatrönk system is closely linked to the storm warnings around Lake Balaton, as it facilitates communication between water rescue teams, water police, and other related organizations. When a storm warning changes, the affected beach lifeguards and boaters receive notifications through the Balatrönk system. This enables quick and effective responses to emergencies, such as when someone is in danger in the water due to a sudden storm.