Scots soaked as South swelters

AS parts of England sweltered on the hottest day of the year in the UK yesterday, swathes of Scotland suffered downpours with some even put on flood alert.

The mercury hit 93.9f (34.4c) in parts of south-east England yesterday, making it the hottest September day since 1911.

But it was a different story across Scotland as downpours hit many parts of the country and torrential rain and flash floods were predicted overnight.

The Met Office said the heaviest rain would fall in Roxburghshire and Berwickshire, issuing a yellow ‘be aware’ warning until late last night, advising drivers to be prepared for difficult conditions on the roads due to surface water.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency said on its website: ‘Remain vigilant and remember, it is your responsibility to take actions which help protect yourself and your property.’

A Met Office spokesman said the storms should abate and temperatures were likely to drop slightly today and tomorrow, making yesterday the year’s highlight.

He said: ‘It is unusual to have the hottest day of the year in September and it doesn’t look like we will beat today’s figure.’

After a cloudy start today, it is expected to be dry and bright later but rain is due to return tomorrow in the west, spreading eastwards.