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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

This situation follow this month's fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for the coming days in areas within SA and NSW, as a system of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, delivering intense sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into blackout recently after strong winds compromised the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major travel disruption at a major airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Severe damage to electrical infrastructure is anticipated to create further problems as utility companies scramble to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Blankets Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast periods on record. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that resulted in soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Result: Extended and dense fog development.
• Effect: Thermal readings remained unseasonably low for an extended time.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rain, strong gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the storm delivered some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

Alongside the snowfall, strong northerly winds buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several locations. The effect of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more typical weather returning.