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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Across Multiple States

This situation come after recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have additionally been issued for later this week in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts eastward, delivering blazing sunshine to much of the area.

The combination of extremely dry land and unbroken heat presents a volatile situation for firefighters.

Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was plunged into darkness last week after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to power systems is expected to create further issues as service providers work urgently to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Blankets Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its clear skies and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest periods on record. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been remarkably extensive and long-lasting this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented fall precipitation that left soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended time.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rain, strong winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal weather returning.