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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across much of the south-west.

Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after recent bushfires in New South Wales, which resulted in the loss of homes and loss of life. Intense heat alerts have additionally been issued for later this week in areas within South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves to the east, bringing blazing heat to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of extremely dry land and relentless heat creates a dangerous scenario for firefighters.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness last week after strong gusts damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where hundreds of flights were grounded. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is anticipated to cause ongoing issues as service providers scramble to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Mist Covers Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, keeping temperatures at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that resulted in soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the soil.
• Result: Prolonged and thick fog formation.
• Impact: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended time.

Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

And in Spain, a weather system has ushered in heavy rain, powerful gales and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular tourist spot. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the system delivered some of the deepest accumulations since 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, fierce winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on several locations. The effect of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.