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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels 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.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Across Multiple States

This situation follow recent bushfires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of life. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been issued for later this week in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense heat to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of extremely dry land and relentless heat presents a dangerous situation for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after powerful gusts compromised the city’s electrical network, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Severe damage to electrical infrastructure is expected to cause further problems as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Mist Covers Sunny Area

At the same time, a region known for its clear skies and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and foggiest weeks on record. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, keeping temperatures at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The prolonged haze has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Extended and dense fog development.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

And in another country, a weather system has ushered in heavy rainfall, strong gales and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, strong winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph recorded on multiple locations. The effect of the storm is expected to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.