Scotland could record its hottest day of 2026 today (June 25) as temperatures are predicted to reach 31°C in parts of the country by afternoon. The Met Office forecasts that Dumfries will experience very hot spells of sunshine, with mercury levels peaking at 31°C around 4pm. Nearby areas such as Moffat, Cumnock, and Kilmarnock are expected to hit 30°C, while Ayr, Biggar, and Sanquhar could see 29°C in the early evening.
Previous Records Broken This Week
Scotland already surpassed its warmest day of 2026 earlier this week. According to the BBC, Dyce in Aberdeenshire reached 29°C on Tuesday, June 23, breaking the previous record of 28.1°C set on May 25 at Floors Castle in the Borders. Today's forecast suggests this record may be broken again, with Dumfries predicted to reach 31°C.
However, not all areas will experience the heat. Edinburgh and Kirkcaldy are forecast to reach only 20°C, while Aberdeen and Peterhead will see a much cooler 16°C. Glasgow is set to roast at 27°C.
Thunderstorm Warnings Issued
The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms in Scotland. The first begins at 3pm today, covering the Orkney Islands, Grampian, Argyll and Bute, and the Highlands. Heavy and persistent rainfall could develop into storms during the evening. The second warning covers the whole of Scotland from midnight on Friday, June 26, until 11:59pm that evening. Some areas could see between 30-50mm of rain in three hours, and Scots are urged to secure loose items and have essentials ready.
Meteorologist Comments
Meteorologist Sean Batty noted that while reaching 31°C is relatively rare in Scotland, top temperatures will likely fall just short of the all-time June record of 32.2°C. He said: "As for Scotland’s all-time June record, it could be close. More likely, however, is that a number of towns and villages will set new local June records."
Met Office meteorologist Clare Nasir added: "Through Thursday evening and overnight this rain does intensify, a risk of hail as well as thunder through the night, particularly across more northern and western areas as that breeze picks up more across eastern parts. Further showery bursts then arrive and push northwards. Again we are likely to see some heavy downpours into Friday morning."
Safety Advice
With temperatures soaring, Scots are urged to wear sunscreen, stay hydrated, and take precautions while out in the heat. Temperatures are expected to dip on Friday, with highs ranging from 15°C to 26°C.
