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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Throughout the Region

This situation come after recent fires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and loss of life. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of SA and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense sunshine to much of the region.

The mix of extremely dry land and relentless high temperatures presents a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after strong gusts damaged the urban power grid, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also caused significant travel disruption at a major airport, where numerous air services were cancelled. Substantial damage to electrical infrastructure is expected to create ongoing issues as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Mist Covers Sunny Region

At the same time, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and foggiest weeks on record. A specific type of fog, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional fall rainfall that resulted in the ground saturated.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained below average for an extended period.

Storm Delivers Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

And in Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its temporary shutdown.

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