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Extreme heat and raging bushfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of homes and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have also been activated for the coming days in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, delivering intense heat to much of the area.

The mix of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless high temperatures creates a dangerous situation for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into darkness last week after powerful winds damaged the city’s power grid, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to power systems is expected to cause ongoing issues as service providers work urgently to restore power to more than 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of fog, 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 longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by exceptional fall rainfall that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense fog development.
• Impact: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended period.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

And in Spain, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, powerful winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snow, fierce northerly winds swept across the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several locations. The effect of the storm is forecast to ease this week with more typical conditions taking hold.