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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Across the Region

These conditions follow recent bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a system of high pressure moves to the east, bringing intense heat to much of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless heat presents a volatile situation for firefighters.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into blackout recently after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also led to major transport delays at a major airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to create ongoing problems as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Fog Covers Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of fog, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been remarkably extensive and long-lasting this year, keeping the mercury at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Record fall rains soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended time.

Storm Delivers Snow to Holiday Islands

Turning to another country, a powerful storm has ushered in heavy rainfall, powerful gales and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, forcing its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple islands. The effect of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more typical weather taking hold.