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Extreme heat and intense bushfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across a large portion of the southwestern region.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after this month's bushfires in another state, which caused the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heatwave warnings have also been activated for the coming days in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, bringing intense heat to much of the region.

The combination of extremely dry land and relentless high temperatures creates a volatile situation for firefighters.

Worldwide Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into blackout last week after powerful winds damaged the city’s power grid, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also caused major travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to cause ongoing issues as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Mist Blankets Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional fall rainfall that resulted in soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Record fall rains soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy period.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

And in another country, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rainfall, strong gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest accumulations since 2016 to a national park, forcing its temporary shutdown.

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