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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been declared across much of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Warnings Throughout Multiple States

This situation follow recent bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of properties and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have additionally been issued for the coming days in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the area.

The mix of tinder-dry land and unbroken high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness recently after strong winds damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is expected to create further problems as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Fog Covers Sunny Region

Meanwhile, a region famed for its sunny weather and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its grayest and foggiest weeks on record. A specific type of fog, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that left the ground saturated.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall saturated the ground.
• Result: Extended and dense fog formation.
• Impact: Temperatures remained below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Destination

And in Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rainfall, strong winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at elevated areas, the system delivered some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snow, fierce northerly winds buffeted the island chain, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple islands. The influence of the storm is expected to diminish this week with more typical conditions taking hold.