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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Across Multiple States

This situation follow this month's fires in New South Wales, which resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of life. Intense heat alerts have additionally been activated for later this week in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense heat to much of the region.

The mix of tinder-dry land and unbroken heat creates a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness recently after powerful gusts damaged the city’s electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also caused major transport delays at a key airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Substantial damage to electrical infrastructure is expected to cause further issues as service providers work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged haze has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that resulted in soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record fall rains saturated the ground.
• Result: Extended and thick mist formation.
• Effect: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended period.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

Turning to another country, a powerful storm has brought intense rain, strong gales and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure.

Alongside the snowfall, fierce winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on multiple islands. The influence of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more typical weather returning.