Scotland set to be hotter than Spain as temperatures soar to 29C on hottest day of year

Scotland is forecast to have its hottest day of the year so far.

Temperatures in parts of Scotland, like Aviemore and Elgin, are set to reach a scorching 29C today, compared with just 19C in Madrid, Spain.

In Scotland’s central belt, the Moray coast, and the north and east Highlands, temperatures are expected to reach 25C today and on Saturday.

The heatwave coincides with new lockdown rules announced by First Minister Nicola Sturgeon on Thursday, which allow Scots to sunbathe and play non contact outdoor sports like golf and tennis.

Temperatures in parts of Scotland, like Aviemore and Elgin, are set to reach a scorching 29C today, compared with just 19C in Spain. (Credit: Shutterstock)

But the temperature may vary greatly across the nation, with Edinburgh and Glasgow set for highs of 25C, while Thurso won't see the mercury go beyond 15C'

And despite strong sunshine in places like Aviemore, Aberlour, Elgin, Achnasheen, Altass, Oykel Bridge and Altnaharra, other regions could be affected by clouds.

Eastern Shetland, the Beauly, and Cromarty Firth could be impacted by some haar and low cloud, which will keep temperatures mild.

The Aberdeenshire and Angus coast will also struggle to get above the high teens due to stiff winds.

Recent good weather has already seen large numbers of people head to areas such as Portobello beach in Edinburgh, but Ms Sturgeon said the “strong advice” as lockdown eases is for people to stay within about five miles of their home, and to avoid places that are busy.

Ms Sturgeon said that while the lockdown – which has been in place since March 23 – is being “modified slightly”, the crisis is “not over” and she called on people to “exercise good judgment at all times”.

Police also warned people to avoid busy areas and beauty spots as lockdown eases.

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