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Scorching conditions and intense wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. With temperatures 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.

Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after this month's bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of homes and loss of life. Intense heatwave warnings have also been activated for the coming days in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves to the east, delivering blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken heat presents a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into darkness last week after strong winds compromised the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The weather conditions also caused major transport delays at a key airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Severe damage to electrical infrastructure is anticipated to create ongoing problems as service providers work urgently to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a region famed for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been remarkably extensive and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The prolonged fog has been driven by unprecedented fall precipitation that left the ground waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended period.

Storm Delivers Snow to Tourist Destination

And in another country, a powerful storm has brought intense rainfall, strong winds and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the storm brought some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, strong northerly winds swept across the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more typical weather taking hold.