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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after recent fires in another state, which caused the destruction of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for the coming days in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts eastward, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the region.

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

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness last week after strong gusts compromised the city’s power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also led to major travel disruption at a key airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is anticipated to create further problems as utility companies work urgently to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Blankets Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged haze has been fuelled by exceptional fall precipitation that left the ground waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Prolonged and thick mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained below average for an lengthy period.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Islands

Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rain, powerful gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the storm brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple locations. The influence of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more typical weather returning.