Scotland is bracing for its hottest day of the year, with temperatures potentially reaching 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) in central and southern areas. This intense heat is being driven by southeasterly winds pulling warm, humid air from the continent, according to BBC Scotland weather presenter Gillian Smart.
Thundery Breakdown Expected
While the heat is expected to peak on Wednesday, a "thundery breakdown" is forecast for Thursday afternoon. A weather front approaching from the northwest is anticipated to interact with the warm air, producing heavy, thundery showers. These showers are particularly expected in the Western Isles, Northwest Highlands, and Northern Isles. The forecast indicates these thundery showers could move southwards across the country, with the potential for torrential downpours and hail.
A yellow warning for thunderstorms has been issued for several regions. From 3:00 PM to 11:59 PM on Thursday, the warning applies to the Highlands, Orkney, Moray, and Argyll and Bute. For the remainder of mainland Scotland, the yellow warning for thunderstorms is in effect for the full 24 hours of Friday.
Heatwave Measures and European Context
In response to the rising temperatures, gritters have been deployed in the Borders region. These vehicles are spreading sand on roads to help reflect the heat and cool the road surfaces. This measure aims to prevent potential damage to the infrastructure caused by extreme heat.
The heatwave is not confined to Scotland; parts of England and Wales are under a rare red warning for extreme heat. The high temperatures are also affecting much of Europe, with temperatures in northern Spain, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands expected to be significantly above average, approximately 12 to 15 degrees Celsius higher than usual.