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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. With temperatures forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been declared across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Across Multiple States

These conditions follow this month's bushfires in New South Wales, which resulted in the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for later this week in parts of SA and NSW, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the area.

The mix of tinder-dry land and relentless high temperatures presents a volatile scenario for firefighters.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into darkness last week after strong winds damaged the city’s electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused significant transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Substantial damage to power systems is expected to create ongoing problems as service providers scramble to restore power to more than 1 million residents.

Unusual Fog Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its clear skies and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A specific type of fog, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended haze has been fuelled by exceptional autumn precipitation that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Impact: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended period.

Storm Delivers Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rainfall, powerful winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snowfall, strong winds from the north swept across the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on several locations. The effect of the storm is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal weather taking hold.