SCOTLAND will be under a "heat dome" this week as temperatures increase to above average.
The temperature in the south of Scotland will rise from 11C on Monday to 17C on Thursday, the first day of spring. This is 7C above average for this time of year.
Most places north of the Border will remain dry, but the odd light shower may still be possible in one or two spots.
After a frosty start, Tuesday is looking dry with increasing amounts of sunshine for many. Staying sunny on Wednesday and Thursday too and feeling warmer as temperatures rise above average.
According to the Met Office, temperatures in Sicily in Italy are only expected to hit 16C, and Madrid in Spain will struggle to reach 14C.
Met Office meteorologist Becky Mitchell said: “Parts of the South East, across the Midlands will be the warmest spots on Wednesday and then on Thursday that warmth travels a bit further north so it’s going to feel pretty warm across southern Scotland, Northern Ireland and the whole of England and Wales.
“There’s really just northern Scotland that will keep hold of the colder weather though the middle of the week.”
However, this is not set to last, with the Met Office forecast stating: "Fine and dry across the majority of the UK at the start of this period, although a few showers could affect the far north and far south on Thursday.
"By Friday and into the weekend, there is an increasing likelihood that rain or showers will spread from the south or west with most parts of the UK probably seeing some showers or longer spells of rain at times, perhaps accompanied by strong winds. Some heavy rain may develop, particularly in the west.
"Into the following week, unsettled conditions will probably continue across many parts of the UK. Some heavy rain or showers are possible at times, these most likely across southern areas.
"Temperatures will be above normal at first, probably falling back closer to average later."
