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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout the Region

These conditions come after recent fires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of life. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been activated for later this week in areas within South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves eastward, bringing intense heat to a broad swath of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless high temperatures presents a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Global Climatic Events Cause Chaos

Elsewhere, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after powerful gusts damaged the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Severe impact on electrical infrastructure is anticipated to cause further problems as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunshine has endured one of its dullest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of fog, which typically lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The prolonged haze has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Impact: Temperatures remained below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

And in Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rainfall, strong gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

In addition to the snow, strong northerly winds swept across the archipelago, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph observed on several islands. The influence of the weather event is expected to diminish this week with more typical conditions returning.