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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Across Multiple States

These conditions follow recent fires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for the coming days in areas within South Australia and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts eastward, bringing intense heat to a broad swath of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken heat creates a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after powerful gusts damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is expected to cause further issues as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Fog Covers Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of fog, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a major airport below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional autumn rainfall that left the ground saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Outcome: Prolonged and thick mist formation.
• Impact: Thermal readings remained unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, strong winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the deepest snow depths since 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple islands. The effect of the storm is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.