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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Across Multiple States

These conditions come after recent fires in another state, which caused the destruction of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for later this week in areas within South Australia and NSW, as a system of high pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense sunshine to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of tinder-dry land and relentless high temperatures creates a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into blackout last week after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused significant travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of flights were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is expected to cause further issues as service providers scramble to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Mist Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on recorded history. A specific type of fog, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn rainfall that resulted in the ground saturated.

• Primary Driver: Record fall rains saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and thick mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy period.

Storm Delivers Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has brought intense rainfall, strong winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the heaviest accumulations since 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snow, fierce northerly winds buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on several locations. The influence of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions returning.