GLASGOW will bask in Brazilian temperatures today with the mercury poised to soar to a glorious 22C.

The city looks set to be Scotland's top hotspot, with temperatures matching the Brazilian capital, Brasília.

As the World CUp host nation get ready to battle it out with Mexico tonight, Scotland is expected to bask in sunshine and balmy temperatures.

Temperatures reached 21C yesterday, and forecasters predict the mini-heatwave will last until the end of the week.

Hundreds are expected to flock to parks and beaches across Scotland in a bid to soak up the sun.

Office workers enjoyed their lunch in George Square yesterday, while others spent the day in the city's parks.

Among the crowds at Kelvingrove Park were Michael McDade and his dog, Poppy, who jumped in a fountain to cool off.

Meanwhile, safety experts are warning the public to be aware of the dangers of park ponds and rivers as temperatures rise.

In the summer months more people are at the risk of drowning.

Mark Maclaren, Scottish Water's regional communities team manager, said: "While it's important that youngsters enjoy their school holidays, it's also vital that they stay safe.

"We are reminding parents to keep their children safe and asking adults to act responsibly around watercourses."

In 2012, 371 people drowned accidentally across the UK.

Forty-three of them were under the age of 19.

Of the 371 drownings, 55% took place in inland waters, including rivers, canals, lochs, streams, ponds and reservoirs.

Carlene McAvoy, community safety development officer at RoSPA Scotland, said: "During hot weather and school holidays, there is often a rise in the number of drownings, which is why it is important to be extra vigilant around inland waters, such as rivers, lakes, lochs, quarries and reservoirs.

"The water can be a lot colder than expected, which can lead to a swimmer going into cold shock.

"In the worst case, a swimmer will inhale water and the drowning process begins.

"There may also be strong currents and underwater debris that you cannot see from the bank.

"So don't go alone, and consider how you are going to get out of the water before you get in - be honest about your swimming ability.

"The safest option is to go swimming at properly-supervised sites, such as beaches, lidos or swimming pools, although we appreciate that not everyone can get to these locations.

"We encourage parents and carers to discuss the dangers with their children and to remind them that they should never swim alone at unsupervised locations."

rebecca.gray@eveningtimes.co.uk