Scotland's railway is gearing up for a spell of hot weather this week, with forecasts suggesting temperatures could climb to around 32°C, potentially challenging the June record.

From Tuesday, conditions are expected to rise into the high 20s, likely topping 30°C by Thursday. Thunderstorms are also forecast later on Thursday, bringing lightning, heavy rain and strong winds.

Although the Met Office has issued a Red extreme heat warning for parts of England and Wales, the warmer conditions north of the border will still pose challenges for Scotland's rail infrastructure.

In direct sunlight, steel rails can heat to about 50°C, which can lead to expansion and slight curving. Overhead power lines may also expand in extreme heat, reducing their tension.

Network Rail's meteorologists and specialist engineering teams are monitoring the situation closely. Where needed, services may be adjusted, including the use of temporary speed restrictions, to reduce stress on tracks and overhead lines.

Engineers are being deployed at key locations across Scotland to respond quickly to any issues, helping to keep disruption to a minimum.

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Passengers are encouraged to plan their journeys, allow extra time where possible and take simple steps such as carrying water to stay comfortable in the heat.

Ross Moran, route director at Network Rail Scotland, said: "We know hot weather can sometimes affect how the railway runs. That's why our teams are keeping a close eye on conditions and carrying out extra checks across the network to keep services moving.

"We're not expecting the same extreme temperatures as elsewhere in the UK, but we're prepared for warmer weather and ready to act if needed. We'd encourage passengers to check their journey before travelling and take care in the heat."

Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said: "We're working closely with our colleagues at Network rail to support customers as the temperatures rise across Scotland this week.

"Hot weather can occasionally impact how the railway operates, so we're encouraging customer to check their journey before travelling, leave a little extra time for their trip, and take simple steps such as carrying water and staying hydrated.

"By taking a few precautions and planning ahead, customers can travel safely and comfortably throughout the summer months, whatever the weather brings."

How Network Rail manages track temperatures in hot weather:

- Sections of rail are painted white to absorb less heat and expand less, typically making them 5 to 10°C cooler than unpainted rail.

- Much of the network uses long lengths of continuously welded rail, which reduces the risk of buckling in high temperatures by limiting compression.

- On routes with shorter rails, small gaps are left between sections to allow for expansion.

- Monitoring is being enhanced with temperature probes that give early warnings as heat rises, enabling preventative action.

- In some areas, track is laid on reinforced concrete slabs instead of traditional sleepers and ballast, lowering the risk of buckling.