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Extreme heat and raging bushfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout the Region

These conditions follow this month's bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of homes and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for the coming days in parts of South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense heat to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless heat creates a volatile scenario for emergency crews.

Global Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness last week after strong gusts compromised the city’s electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused major travel disruption at a key airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to create further problems as utility companies scramble to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a region famed for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lasts for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn rainfall that resulted in soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Storm Delivers Snow to Tourist Islands

And in another country, a powerful storm has brought heavy rain, strong gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at higher ground, the system delivered some of the heaviest accumulations since 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.