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Scorching conditions and intense wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been declared across a large portion of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Throughout Multiple States

These conditions come after recent fires in another state, which caused the destruction of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been activated for the coming days in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts eastward, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the area.

The mix of tinder-dry land and relentless heat presents a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after strong winds damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down electricity cables. The weather conditions also led to major travel disruption at a key airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to cause ongoing problems as service providers work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Area

Meanwhile, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on record. A particular form of fog, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and long-lasting this year, holding temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented fall precipitation that resulted in the ground saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains soaked the soil.
• Outcome: Extended and dense mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy period.

Storm Delivers Snow to Holiday Destination

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rainfall, powerful winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the storm brought some of the deepest accumulations since 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

Alongside the snowfall, fierce winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal weather returning.