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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across a large portion of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Across Multiple States

This situation come after this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of homes and loss of life. Intense heatwave warnings have also been issued for the coming days in parts of SA and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts eastward, bringing intense heat to much of the area.

The combination of extremely dry land and relentless high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after strong gusts compromised the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also led to major transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is expected to create ongoing issues as service providers scramble to restore power to more than 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Covers Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its sunny weather and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on record. A specific type of fog, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and long-lasting this year, holding temperatures at a major airport under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged haze has been driven by unprecedented autumn rainfall that left soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and thick fog formation.
• Impact: Temperatures remained below average for an lengthy period.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unheard of at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, forcing its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, strong winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several locations. The influence of the weather event is forecast to diminish this week with more typical conditions taking hold.