Scots are set to bask in the sun this weekend, with Glasgow expected to be hotter than the Greek capital Athens amid an 'extreme' wildfire risk. Temperatures are forecast to reach 20°C on Friday, with those venturing outdoors urged not to light fires and to be 'mindful that one spark can spread causing a large amount of damage'.
Wildfire Risk Escalates
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) issued a 'very high' risk of wildfires across western, central, and eastern areas yesterday, which has now been upgraded to 'extreme' across western parts due to a band of high pressure. The 'very high' risk will remain in central and eastern Scotland until the end of the weekend, where temperatures are expected to stay in the high teens or above. Overnight, however, temperatures could plummet to as low as -3°C, with frost predicted in some rural areas.
Pleasant Weekend Ahead
The Met Office described it as a 'pleasant weekend to be out and about'. Glasgow is set to be the warmest city in the country on Friday at 20°C, with the possibility of temperatures rising to 21°C over the weekend. In contrast, Athens is only expected to peak at 19°C on Friday.
SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour urged families to act responsibly. 'Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions,' he said. 'People living in the impacted areas should avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread causing a large amount of damage.' He emphasized that there is 'no such thing as a harmless fire' and asked anyone spotting a large outdoor fire to report it immediately.
Weather Outlook
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates noted that high pressure would 'remain broadly in charge' this weekend, with most places staying dry and sunny. 'As is often the case, there are a few exceptions, with cloudier conditions for some at times and patchy rain possible for northern Scotland later in the weekend. But in the sunshine, we're expecting temperatures to steadily climb, likely peaking in the low 20s on Friday and over the weekend. Onshore breezes will keep some coastal areas somewhat cooler,' he added.
While daytime temperatures offer a welcome change from recent chilly and breezy conditions, gardeners were warned that 'patchy frost is also likely' where skies are clear and winds light overnight.
