Extreme heat warning in place for southern and east Scotland as record breaking temperatures predicted

Scots have been warned to take care as an amber weather warning for extreme heat is in place for parts of the country.

The Met Office’s weather warning, which affects large parts of Scotland, came into place at midnight and is set to remain until midnight on Tuesday.

It has been predicted that Scotland’s all-time record temperature of 32.9C, which was recorded in Greycrook, Borders in August 2003, could be topped early this week.

Areas including Hawick, Melrose and Kelso, could see highs of 34C.

The Met Office has warned that the heatwave is likely to lead to widespread impact on people and infrastructure.

Advice includes drinking plenty of fluids, keeping out of the sun and avoiding exercise in the hottest part of the day.

The Scottish Government’s resilience minister Keith Brown said: “We are aware of the extension to the weather warnings currently in place and are receiving regular updates from partners including the Met Office and emergency services.

“Our resilience arrangements have been activated and stand ready at all times to co-ordinate a response to severe weather issues where required. We will continue to closely monitor developments.

“When temperatures increase, it’s important to monitor forecasts and follow public health advice, including staying hydrated and drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding excess alcohol.

“I would also urge people to look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, as older people, those with underlying conditions and those living alone may struggle to keep cool and hydrated.”

Those planning to travel have been warned that some transport may be affected.

ScotRail warned that its services may be affected by the heat with some trains running at reduced speed for safety reasons.

Scottish Water has urged people to help maintain normal supplies by being as efficient as possible with water use.

The weather warning in Scotland covers Clackmannanshire, Dundee, Falkirk, Fife, Perth and Kinross, Stirling, Dumfries and Galloway, East Lothian, Edinburgh, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, West Lothian, East Ayrshire, North Lanarkshire, South Ayrshire, and South Lanarkshire.