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Extreme heat and intense bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across much of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Across Multiple States

These conditions follow recent bushfires in another state, which caused the destruction of properties and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have additionally been issued for the coming days in parts of SA and NSW, as a system of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, bringing intense sunshine to much of the region.

The mix of extremely dry vegetation and relentless heat presents a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Climatic Events Trigger Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after strong winds damaged the city’s power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also led to significant travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to cause ongoing issues as service providers work urgently to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Area

Meanwhile, a valley famed for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been remarkably extensive and long-lasting 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 haze has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that resulted in soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the soil.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time.

Severe Weather Delivers Wintry Weather to Holiday Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has brought intense rainfall, strong gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the deepest snow depths since 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, strong winds from the north swept across the island chain, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to diminish this week with more typical weather returning.