Scotland is set for a sweltering week as temperatures are forecast to approach 30°C, according to the latest Met Office weather maps. This comes as the Met Office has expanded an extreme heat warning for parts of the UK, with southern England and Wales expected to reach a record-breaking 38°C.
Heat from Continental Europe Drives Temperatures Up
The conditions are a result of heat spreading from continental Europe, where an intense hot spell has developed. Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree said: “The forecast heatwave is developing into an impactful severe weather event, with record-breaking June temperatures and very high humidity. The combination of heat and humidity will be oppressive and bring impacts across society from public health and infrastructure, to power and water supplies.”
Scotland's Temperature Breakdown by Day
In Scotland, the highest heat will be seen in the south, but other areas will also enjoy temperatures in the mid-teens to low twenties. According to Met Office maps, Monday (June 22) will start in the high teens, with Wick reaching 17°C by 3pm, Glasgow 19°C, and Dumfries 21°C. By Tuesday (June 23), low twenties become widespread, with Aberdeen and Fort William hitting 21°C by 7pm, the Western Isles peaking at 16°C, and Ullapool climbing to 19°C.
Wednesday (June 24) sees a ramp-up, especially below the Central Belt. Glasgow is expected to reach 26°C, Edinburgh 25°C, and Dumfries 26°C in the afternoon. The Met Office notes these temperatures will persist into the night, leading to uncomfortable sleeping conditions.
Thursday Expected as Hottest Day
Thursday (June 25) is forecast to be the hottest day of the week. Dumfries will start at 20°C in the morning and rise to a sweltering 29°C by 4pm. Cumnock follows at 28°C, with Glasgow peaking at 26°C. By evening, temperatures will taper off into the low twenties across the south. Further north, Fort William will see highs of 24°C, Aberdeen 17°C, and areas further north up to 20°C.
Friday sees a steep drop back into the mid-teens, though still close to 20°C in some places.
Water Safety Warning for Coastal Areas
While conditions are set to be warm, those heading to coastal areas for respite should be cautious. Surface water temperatures are not as high as in mid-summer, and sudden immersion in cold water can cause shock, raising heart rate and potentially triggering panic. Samantha Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI, said: “If you find yourself struggling in the water, remember to Float to Live: tilt your head back so your ears are submerged, relax and control your breathing. You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it’s ok if your legs sink—everyone floats differently. Where possible, always choose a lifeguarded beach, and swim between the red and yellow flags. In a coastal emergency remember to call 999 for the coastguard.”
