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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the south-west.

Widespread Extreme Heat Warnings Across Multiple States

These conditions come after recent bushfires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for the coming days in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, bringing blazing heat to much of the region.

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

Global Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in blackout last week after powerful gusts damaged the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused major transport delays at a key airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Severe impact on power systems is anticipated to create further problems as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a region known for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional autumn rainfall that left soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record fall rains soaked the ground.
• Result: Extended and dense fog formation.
• Impact: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While snow is not unheard of at elevated areas, the system brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, fierce winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on multiple islands. The influence of the storm is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions returning.