Scotland recorded its hottest day of the year so far on Tuesday, with a temperature of 29.4C at Dyce in Aberdeen, according to Met Office data. The hot weather is expected to continue in the coming days, with warnings of potential travel disruption.
Temperature Records and Forecast
Fyvie Castle in Aberdeenshire recorded 29C on the same day, while temperatures of 28.7C were noted at Aboyne in Aberdeenshire, Leuchars in Fife, and Edinburgh. While Scotland's temperatures are not expected to reach the extreme highs seen in southern England, they could still rise to around 30C in some areas this week.
Met Office meteorologist Honor Criswick said: "There is a chance we might break that (the June record) tomorrow because we are expecting temperatures to get into the high 20s and possibly the low 30s so it does threaten the Scottish June record, there is the potential to break it." The current June record is 32.3C, recorded at Ochtertyre in Perthshire on June 18, 1893.
Travel Disruption Warnings
ScotRail warned that high temperatures can pose challenges for the railway as steel rails expand in direct sunlight. Temporary speed restrictions may be implemented on some routes to ensure safe operation, potentially leading to longer journey times and minor service alterations.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, said: "As temperatures rise across Scotland this week, we're encouraging customers to take a few simple steps to help ensure they have a safe and comfortable journey. Staying hydrated, checking your journey before travelling, and speaking to a member of staff if you feel unwell can all make a big difference."
Network Rail Scotland route director Ross Moran added: "We know hot weather can sometimes affect how the railway runs. That's why our teams are keeping a close eye on conditions and carrying out extra checks across the network to keep services moving."
Weather Outlook
On Wednesday, southern Scotland is expected to be fine and dry, very warm, and humid at times, while the central belt and parts of Aberdeenshire may be cloudier. The far north of Scotland may see rain, possibly heavy with thunder, and temperatures there could be around the mid-teens. Friday will still be warm but cloudier with patchy rain, and similar conditions are expected over the weekend with gradual cooling.
The 29.4C at Dyce on Tuesday beat the previous 2023 record of 28.1C at Floors Castle in the Borders on May 25, as reported by the BBC.
