Warnings over flash floods have been issued as Scotland is set to be hit by thunderstorms, torrential downpours and hailstones.

The country will have some of its highest temperatures this year - with it expected to reach 26-28C in some areas - which will be accompanied by high humidity.

The Met Office has issued a UK-wide severe weather warning for Tuesday and Wednesday advising of possible disruption to travel, flooding of homes and businesses, and power cuts.

So far the highest temperatures in Scotland this year have been 28C at Plockton in May and 27C in Glasgow last month.

STV weather presenter Sean Batty said: "Temperatures will reach 26C to 28C in central and southern areas and 24C to 25C in the north of the mainland.

"Humidity will be around 70& to 80%, which will make it feel hot and very muggy. The high humidity will also make for a rather uncomfortable night for sleeping.

"The high humidity and temperatures will allow thunderstorms to develop over Northern Ireland, and these will move east across Scotland on Tuesday night and Wednesday.

"There is a risk of some torrential downpours and localised flooding issues. There could also be some large hailstones and gusty winds as the storms pass through."

He added: "Temperatures will drop slightly behind the thundery rain on Wednesday to 17C to 19C in the west but still in the low 20s in the east.

"Changeable weather will remain through the rest of the week, and temperatures return closer to normal."

The Met Office's yellow warning for severe weather is in effect from 5pm on Tuesday and lasts until 6pm on Wednesday.

The warning states: "Whilst most places will miss the worst, please be aware of the risk of flash flooding.

"Frequent lightning, large hail and strong winds could be additional hazards.

"All of this could lead to some flooding of homes, businesses and transport networks. Disruption to power is also possible."