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Scorching conditions and intense wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Throughout the Region

This situation follow this month's fires in New South Wales, which resulted in the loss of homes and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for later this week in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, bringing intense sunshine to much of the region.

The combination of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken heat creates a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was plunged into darkness recently after strong gusts compromised the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to significant transport delays at a major airport, where numerous air services were cancelled. Substantial impact on power systems is anticipated to create ongoing issues as utility companies scramble to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Blankets Sunny Area

At the same time, a region known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on record. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by exceptional autumn precipitation that left soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense fog formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Snow to Tourist Islands

And in another country, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rain, powerful gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple locations. The influence of the weather event is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.