Scotland records hottest day of 2026 as heatwave predicted

Scotland has recorded its hottest day of the year with predictions that the country will experience a heatwave this week.

A high of 29C was recorded at Dyce in Aberdeen on Tuesday, beating the year's previous high of 28.1C at Floors Castle in the Borders on 25 May. Temperatures are expected to peak on Thursday.

Met Office criteria for a heatwave in Scotland states that recorded temperatures must reach 25C for three consecutive days in the same area.

ScotRail advised train passengers to "leave a little bit of extra time" for their journeys as the expected temperatures of over 30C in some areas could bring "challenges" for train lines.

Rail travellers in the parts of England and Wales where a red extreme heat warning is in place have been advised to avoid non-essential travel, but disruption is less likely in Scotland.

The highest temperature forecast for this week was for 30C in southern Scotland on Thursday.

BBC Scotland weather presenter Judith Ralston said an area of high pressure to the east of Scotland was bringing dry weather over the coming days.

She said: "The position of the high is key, it's allowing very warm or hot air to push up across the country, tapping into some the heat we're currently seeing down south."

But Ralston added: "We'll not see the searing and dangerous temperatures that England and Wales are seeing."

However, Scotland would "certainly" experience the temperatures required to qualify for official heat wave status, she said.

The record for the hottest day in Scotland was set in July 2022 when 34.8C was reached in the Scottish Borders.

Last year the country's highest temperature recorded by the Met Office was in Aviemore in the Highlands where it was 32.2C on 12 July.

Public Health Scotland (PHS) advised that while many people enjoy the warmer weather, there were some risks for people over age 65, babies and young children and those with underlying health conditions.

"Remember to check on others, particularly those most at risk and never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle as these can get hot very quickly," a statement from PHS said.

Network Rail is preparing for temperatures to peak above 32C in parts of Scotland on Thursday, with thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong winds in some areas.

Steel rails could reach about 50C in direct sunlight, sometimes causing them to expand and curve. Overhead power lines can also expand in extreme heat and lose tension.

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said their teams were carrying out extra checks across the network to keep services moving.

"We're not expecting the same extreme temperatures as elsewhere in the UK, but we're prepared for warmer weather and ready to act if needed," he said.

ScotRail's Phil Campbell said: "Hot weather can occasionally impact how the railway operates, so we're encouraging customer to check their journey before travelling, leave a little extra time for their trip, and take simple steps such as carrying water and staying hydrated."