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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major alert for extreme heat has been declared across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Across Multiple States

These conditions come after this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been activated for later this week in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure shifts eastward, bringing intense sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken heat creates a dangerous scenario for emergency crews.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into blackout last week after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a major airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Severe impact on power systems is anticipated to create ongoing issues as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a region known for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn rainfall that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Extended and thick mist formation.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at higher ground, the system delivered some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snowfall, strong winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on multiple locations. The effect of the storm is expected to diminish this week with more typical weather returning.