Scotland Records Highest Temperature of 2026 Amid Heatwave Forecast
Scotland has experienced its hottest day of the year so far, with forecasts indicating a heatwave is expected to continue throughout the week.
A temperature of 29C was recorded at Dyce in Aberdeen on Tuesday, surpassing the previous year's high of 28.1C measured at Floors Castle in the Borders on 25 May. Temperatures are anticipated to reach their peak on Thursday.
The Met Office defines a heatwave in Scotland as temperatures reaching at least 25C for three consecutive days in the same location.
ScotRail has advised passengers to allow extra time for their journeys due to expected temperatures exceeding 30C in some areas, which may present operational challenges for train services.
While parts of England and Wales are under a red extreme heat warning, where rail travellers have been urged to avoid non-essential travel, Scotland is expected to experience less disruption.
The highest temperature forecast for the week is 30C in southern Scotland on Thursday.
Steel rails can reach 50C in direct sunlight
Weather Conditions and Forecast
BBC Scotland weather presenter Judith Ralston explained that an area of high pressure located east of Scotland is responsible for bringing dry weather over the coming days.
"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."
Ralston added,
"We'll not see the searing and dangerous temperatures that England and Wales are seeing."
However, she confirmed that Scotland will "certainly" experience temperatures sufficient to meet the official heatwave criteria.
The record for Scotland's hottest day was set in July 2022, when 34.8C was recorded in the Scottish Borders. Last year, the highest temperature recorded by the Met Office was 32.2C in Aviemore, Highlands, on 12 July.
Public Health Advisory
Public Health Scotland (PHS) cautioned that although many people enjoy warmer weather, certain groups remain vulnerable to heat-related risks. These include individuals over 65 years old, babies, 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 advised.
Impact on Rail Infrastructure and Services
Network Rail is preparing for temperatures to exceed 32C in parts of Scotland on Thursday, with some areas also expecting thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds.
Steel rails exposed to direct sunlight can reach temperatures of approximately 50C, which may cause expansion and curvature. Overhead power lines may also expand and lose tension under extreme heat conditions.
Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, stated that teams are conducting additional inspections across the network to maintain service continuity.
"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 noted,
"Hot weather can occasionally impact how the railway operates, so we're encouraging customers 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."
The heatwave threshold varies in different parts of the UK
