The European Commission approved nearly €50 million in emergency aid for farmers in six EU countries hit by devastating weather events this spring, the agency disclosed. Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania will receive support from the agricultural reserve after late frosts, hail, and heavy rain destroyed large portions of fruit, vegetable, and nut harvests. Poland gets the biggest share at €14.8 million, followed by Romania with €11.5 million and Hungary with €10.8 million. The affected countries can add up to 200% more funding from their own budgets. Farmers must receive payments before April 30, 2026.
The weather disasters followed a similar pattern across all six countries this spring. Unusually warm February temperatures caused fruit trees to flower too early, making them vulnerable when cold snaps and frost hit in March, April, and May. Bulgaria saw widespread damage to almonds, apples, apricots, cherries, peaches, pears, and walnuts after the early warm spell. Latvia lost fruit trees, berries, vegetables, and seed crops like peas and flax when frost and heavy rain followed warm April weather. Lithuania faced similar problems with apples, berries, cherries, pears, and plums damaged by late frost.
Hungary’s frost hit nearly the entire country during April and May, destroying apples, apricots, cherries, peaches, pears, and quinces. Polish farmers dealt with prolonged frost followed by strong hailstorms that hurt berries, currants, sour cherries, and cucumbers. Romanian growers also lost major portions of their fruit production when late frosts froze buds and flowers. The erratic weather patterns reflect broader climate challenges facing European agriculture.
The Commission stressed that rapid distribution of this emergency funding is crucial for helping farmers recover from their losses. Member states need approval before the money can flow to affected producers. This type of emergency support from the EU’s agricultural reserve helps cushion farmers against extreme weather events that are becoming more frequent due to climate change.
