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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. With temperatures expected to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout the Region

These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for later this week in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, bringing intense heat to a broad swath of the region.

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

Global Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after powerful winds damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to significant travel disruption at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to cause further issues as service providers scramble to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Area

Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and thick fog development.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Tourist Islands

And in another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, strong winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the storm delivered some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snow, strong winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several islands. The influence of the weather event is expected to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.