Record-breaking warm New Year could be on the cards

This New Year could be a record-breaker weather-wise, as we see 2021 out under a spell of warmer and milder conditions than usual.

Above-average temperatures for this time of year have meant there’s been little need to get the hats and scarves out as December draws to a close.

STV meteorologist Sean Batty said: “We’re heading for a very mild New Year, and possibly record-breaking.

“Warmest New Year’s Day was in 1992 in Inverurie with a high of 14.5C. This Saturday could see highs 13-15C in Moray and East Lothian.”

We’re heading for a very mild new year, and possibly record-breaking. Warmest New Year’s Day was in 1992 in Inverurie with a high of 14.5C. This Saturday could see highs 13-15C in Moray and East Lothian. pic.twitter.com/DD9sORQxI8
— Sean Batty (@SeanBattyTV) December 28, 2021

It’s a similar situation across the UK – with the highest temperature recorded on Wednesday being 15.7C at Exeter Airport in Devon, followed closely by London’s St James Park with 15.6C.

Two years ago Achfary in Sutherland saw the highest December temperature on record in the UK, with the mercury reaching 18.7C.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “We should be around 8C or 9C this time of year really.

“I imagine people certainly won’t be raiding their full winter wardrobes over the next couple of days – I imagine the thermals will be not needed.

“Whether or not people will be wearing t-shirts or jumpers, I think that’s a personal call.”

Temperatures are expected to drop after the New Year with Monday expected to be cooler.