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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Heatwave Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for later this week in areas within SA and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, delivering intense heat to much of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and relentless heat creates a dangerous scenario for firefighters.

Worldwide Climatic Events Trigger Chaos

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after powerful winds damaged the city’s power grid, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also led to significant travel disruption at a major airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Severe impact on power systems is anticipated to cause further issues as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a region known for its clear skies and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The prolonged fog has been fuelled by exceptional fall precipitation that left the ground waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Impact: Temperatures stayed below average for an extended time.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

And in another country, a powerful storm has brought heavy rain, powerful winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at elevated areas, the system brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

Alongside the snow, strong winds from the north swept across the island chain, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on several islands. The effect of the storm is expected to ease this week with more typical weather taking hold.