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

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of homes and loss of life. Intense heat alerts have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, bringing blazing heat to much of the area.

The mix of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for firefighters.

Global Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was plunged into darkness recently after powerful winds damaged the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The weather conditions also led to significant transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Severe damage to power systems is expected to cause further issues as service providers work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Area

Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a major airport below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains saturated the soil.
• Result: Extended and thick mist formation.
• Effect: Temperatures stayed unseasonably low for an extended time.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Destination

Turning to another country, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, forcing its closure.

In addition to the snowfall, strong winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several locations. The effect of the weather event is expected to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.