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Scorching conditions and intense wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions follow recent bushfires in another state, which caused the destruction of homes and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have also been activated for later this week in parts of SA and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, bringing intense sunshine to much of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry land and relentless heat creates a volatile scenario for firefighters.

Worldwide Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was plunged into darkness recently after strong gusts damaged the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also led to major travel disruption at a key airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Severe damage to electrical infrastructure is anticipated to cause further problems as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a region known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast periods on record. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, holding temperatures at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn rainfall that left the ground waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the soil.
• Result: Extended and thick fog development.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Storm Delivers Wintry Weather to Holiday Destination

Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snow, strong winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal weather taking hold.