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Extreme heat and raging bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the south-west.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Across the Region

These conditions follow recent fires in another state, which resulted in the loss of homes and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have additionally been activated for the coming days in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a system of high pressure moves eastward, delivering blazing heat to much of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures presents a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into darkness recently after strong winds compromised the city’s electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also led to major transport delays at a key airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Severe impact on power systems is expected to create ongoing issues as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a valley famed for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and long-lasting this year, holding temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The prolonged haze has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left soils waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Extended and dense mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained below average for an lengthy time.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

And in Spain, a powerful storm has brought intense rainfall, powerful winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest snow depths since 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, strong northerly winds buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the weather event is expected to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.