Parts of Scotland are predicted to soar to over 30C this week as a heatwave travels across Europe and into the UK, with Dumfries expected to reach 32C on Thursday 25 June. This comes as the Met Office upgraded heat warnings from amber to red in parts of southern England, warning of potential loss of power and essential services.
Red Warning for Southern England
The Met Office has issued a red warning for extreme heat, valid for over 24 hours, covering parts of London and the east Midlands where temperatures could reach 39C. Met Office deputy chief forecaster Mark Sidaway said: "Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events and we’re expecting severe and significant impacts from this heatwave, with health impacts likely for many, even beyond those who are normally more vulnerable to the heat."
Scotland's Temperature Forecast
Throughout the week, temperatures across Scotland will rise from the high teens into the mid-twenties, with a significant jump on Wednesday 24 June as areas near the Scottish borders reach 28C. By Thursday morning at 4am, Glasgow, Stranraer, and Dumfries will already be at 18C, with central Scotland around 16C. Dumfries is then forecast to hit 32C by 4pm on Thursday, close to Scotland's hottest day on record of 34.8C in 2022.
The Met Office forecast for Dumfries and surrounding areas reads: "Sunny, hot inland Thursday, coastal haar, perhaps some thundery showers later. Showery on Friday." Other areas like Moffat, Dalbeattie, and Thornhill are expected to reach 31C, while Jedburgh and Cumnock could hit 29C. Glasgow, Helensburgh, and Fort William are set for 27C. In contrast, east coast areas like Edinburgh, Perth, and Dundee will see low-twenties, with Aberdeen only reaching 17C.
Heatwave Risks and Advice
The sudden spike in temperature is expected to drop back to around 20C on Friday 26 June, but Scots are urged to take precautions. The Met Office noted that the frequency and intensity of heatwaves have increased worldwide, with projections suggesting hot spells will become "more frequent in our future climate."
A warning has also been issued for those planning to cool down at beaches or waterfronts: while air temperatures rise, water remains cold and can cause cold water shock. Lifeguarded beaches and swimming between red and yellow flags are recommended for safety.
