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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Warnings Across the Region

This situation follow this month's bushfires in another state, which caused the loss of homes and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have additionally been issued for the coming days in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure moves eastward, delivering intense sunshine to a broad swath of the area.

The mix of extremely dry land and unbroken high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after powerful winds damaged the city’s power grid, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major travel disruption at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to electrical infrastructure is anticipated to cause further problems as utility companies work urgently to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Mist Blankets Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A specific type of fog, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by exceptional fall precipitation that left soils waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Record fall rains saturated the soil.
• Result: Prolonged and thick mist development.
• Impact: Temperatures stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Destination

Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful gales and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at higher ground, the storm delivered some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snowfall, fierce northerly winds buffeted the archipelago, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on several islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.