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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Widespread Heatwave Warnings Across Multiple States

These conditions follow this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of homes and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have additionally been issued for the coming days in areas within SA and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense heat to much of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless high temperatures creates a volatile situation for emergency crews.

Global Climatic Events Cause Disruption

In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness last week after powerful gusts damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Severe impact on power systems is expected to create ongoing problems as utility companies work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Blankets Sunny Region

At the same time, a region known for its sunny weather and plentiful sunlight has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably extensive and persistent this year, holding temperatures at a major airport below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been fuelled by exceptional autumn precipitation that resulted in soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains soaked the ground.
• Result: Prolonged and thick mist development.
• Effect: Temperatures remained unseasonably low for an extended period.

Severe Weather Delivers Snow to Holiday Islands

And in Spain, a weather system has brought intense rainfall, strong winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the storm brought some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, forcing its temporary shutdown.

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