Scotland set to feel the heat as thunderstorms expected

Scotland is expected to bask in hot weather over the next few days, but thunderstorms are likely.

Some parts of the country will enjoy temperatures as high as 28C on Thursday and Friday.

That could lead to thunderstorms and heavy rain, STV meteorologist Sean Batty said.

Central Scotland, Moray and the north Highlands will see the hottest weather this week – possibly threatening Scotland’s current 2020 high of 28.9C.

Sean said: “The heat will peak on Thursday and Friday with temperatures possibly reaching 28C in the central belt, Moray and the north Highlands.

“This will be the warmest weather so far this year for some areas, but the highest 2020 temperature so far is 28.9C recorded at Dawyck Botanics, just south of Peebles.

“The heat brings with it the risk of thunderstorms again. These will be quite isolated on Thursday with most areas staying dry, but the main risk will be in the north and west.

“On Friday the risk is higher for most of the country with a possibility of some intense downpours and hail.

“It’s important to remember that UV is at its highest level just now, which means that sunburn can happen very quickly, so make sure you’ve got the suntan lotion with you if you’re out enjoying the sun.”

The hot weather isn’t expected to last into the weekend, however, with more rain and wind forecast.

Sean said: “At the weekend we see a return to more changeable conditions once again with showery and windy weather in the west.

“Gales may even affect the Hebrides for a time on Sunday.”

The high temperatures come from warm air drifting out of north Africa, which has already sparked a heatwave in parts of Europe.

Sean said: “Some spots in Spain have been around 40C in the last few days, with France heading for the high 30s in the coming days. Southern England could reach the mid-30s on Thursday and Friday.”