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

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Throughout the Region

These conditions come after this month's fires in another state, which caused the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for later this week in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, delivering blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the area.

The combination of tinder-dry land and relentless heat presents a dangerous situation for emergency crews.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into blackout recently after strong winds compromised the city’s electrical network, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also caused major travel disruption at a major airport, where numerous flights were cancelled. Severe damage to electrical infrastructure is anticipated to cause ongoing issues as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million residents.

Atypical Mist Blankets Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended fog has been driven by unprecedented autumn rainfall that left soils saturated.

• Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains saturated the soil.
• Outcome: Extended and thick mist development.
• Impact: Temperatures stayed unseasonably low for an extended period.

Severe Weather Brings Snow to Holiday Islands

Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, strong gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, strong winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple islands. The effect of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal weather returning.