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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout the Region

This situation follow recent bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and loss of life. Severe heatwave warnings have also been issued for the coming days in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, delivering blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures creates a volatile scenario for emergency crews.

Worldwide Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after strong winds compromised the city’s power grid, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also led to major travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were cancelled. Severe damage to power systems is anticipated to create ongoing issues as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Fog Covers Sunny Area

At the same time, a region known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that left the ground waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and thick fog development.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Snow to Tourist Destination

Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, forcing its closure.

Alongside the snow, strong winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several locations. The effect of the weather event is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.