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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions follow recent bushfires in another state, which caused the destruction of properties and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for later this week in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves to the east, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the area.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken heat presents a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after powerful winds compromised the city’s electrical network, with falling trees bringing down electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused significant travel disruption at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were cancelled. Severe impact on power systems is expected to cause further problems as service providers work urgently to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Fog Blankets Sunny Area

At the same time, a region known for its clear skies and abundant sunshine has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping the mercury at a major airport below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left the ground saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains saturated the soil.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rain, strong winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, fierce winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on several locations. The influence of the storm is expected to diminish this week with more typical conditions taking hold.