Scotland set for warmest day so far as heatwave continues

Scotland is set for its warmest day of the year so far as the heatwave continues across the UK.

The top temperature hit 28C in Renfrewshire on Tuesday, the warmest weather of the year so far for the council area.

The hot spell is expected to peak on Thursday in central areas with Glasgow and Ayrshire potentially hitting close to 30C, making it the hottest weather since June last year.

In 2020 the highest temperature recorded was 31C at Prestwick.

STV Meteorologist Sean Batty said: “This is the summer heat we’ve been building up to over the last few weeks, with temperatures set to hit the high 20s in the coming days.

“Most summer temperature records are set in the last few weeks of July or first two weeks of August, so you’d expect the peak of summer to be in the next few weeks.”

Sean said he expects some local July temperature record to be broken, he said: “For example Bishopton in Renfrewshire has a record of 28.6C for July and on Tuesday it hit 27.7C, so this is one to watch in the coming days.

“Another is Dunstaffnage near Oban where the record is 28.8C, although this may be a stretch too far for Argyll. There will also be some warm nights with some spots staying in the mid to high teens later in the week.”

The heat is expected to peak a bit later in the northwest Highlands with the likes of Wester Ross hitting 25-28C Thursday and Friday.

The warmest conditions will remain through the weekend, while it will become a little less warm compared to previous days in the south.

Sean said: “There have been some drought concerns, and the dry weather is set to continue for several days yet, with only a hint that some thundery showers could head our way next week, so this could get worse before any noticeable improvement.

“While this will be a hot spell of weather by Scottish standards, the mercury should stay away from the all-time record of 33C recorded in 2003.

“During the hot weather remember not to leave any children or pets in the car as inside temperatures may be around 50C in the coming days.

“Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, including filling up bird baths and perhaps a small dish for any visiting hedgehogs. Wear a high factor suntan lotion as UV levels remain high, avoid afternoon exercise and remember to carry your inhaler if you’re asthmatic.

“Finally, be careful when disposing of cigarettes, matches and BBQs as there will be a high fire risk after such dry and warm conditions.”