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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Broad Heatwave Alerts Across the Region

This situation follow this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, delivering blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

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

Worldwide Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after strong winds damaged the city’s electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Severe impact on power systems is anticipated to create further problems as utility companies work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A specific type of low cloud, which typically lingers for only a short time, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended haze has been fuelled by exceptional fall precipitation that left soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and thick mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy time.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

And in another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, strong gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, strong northerly winds buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple locations. The influence of the storm is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions returning.