Scotland could be hit with regular 40C heatwaves as climate change hits

Scotland could be sweltering in 40C heat by the end of the century, scientists have has warned.

Climate change caused by human activity is already pushing the mercury to new record highs.

With heatwaves increasing across the UK, researchers at the Met Office’s Hadley Centre in Exeter analysed data to assess the likelihood of temperatures in Britain rising sharply in the future.

The chances of temperatures reaching 40C anywhere in the UK are currently extremely low.

But if emissions continue at high levels, the UK could see days with 40C heat every three to four years on average by 2100, a study published in scientific journal Nature Communications found.

Scotland could be hit with regular 40C heatwaves by the end of the century. (PA)

Temperatures over 35C occur once every five years on average but could rise to every other year.

The scientists said if action is taken to reduce emissions, the risk of extreme heat would be much lower.

Dr Mark McCarthy, from the Met Office, said: “Cutting emissions now can significantly reduce the occurrence of extreme high temperatures in the future.”