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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Throughout Multiple States

This situation come after recent bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of homes and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have also been issued for the coming days in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts eastward, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the region.

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

Global Climatic Events Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness last week after powerful winds damaged the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a major airport, where numerous air services were cancelled. Severe impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to cause ongoing problems as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional autumn precipitation that resulted in soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and thick fog development.
• Impact: Thermal readings remained below average for an lengthy time.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

And in Spain, a weather system has ushered in heavy rainfall, powerful gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the system delivered some of the heaviest accumulations 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 wind gusts exceeding 50mph observed on several islands. The influence of the weather event is expected to diminish this week with more seasonal weather taking hold.