Parts of Scotland could reach a scorching 30C today in what is set to be the hottest day of the year so far.
But the sunshine is set to be short-lived with a Met Office warning issued for thunderstorms and flash flooding across large areas of the country from tonight.
Aberdeen and areas of the north-east reached 24C around lunchtime, making them warmer than famous sun spots such as Los Angeles and Brisbane.
Temperatures in other parts of the country could reach the low 30s and police have warned residents to take care and remain hydrated in the hot weather.
The Met Office, however, has confirmed the warm air also brings a risk of lightening, hail, storms and flash flooding later today and overnight.
A Yellow “be aware” warning remains in place from 17:00 until 18:00 on Wednesday.
The extent of the thunderstorms is uncertain, but some places could see over 30mm of rain in an hour, increasing the risk of surface water and spray on the roads.
The Met Office’s Chief Forecaster said: “Hot, moist air spreading north and northeast across the western side of the UK is expected to produce thunderstorms later on Tuesday, these then transfer erratically northeastwards during Wednesday.
“Rainfall will be very variable, and the extent of thunderstorms is uncertain, but some places could see around 30 mm in an hour and more than 50 mm in a few hours.”
