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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels forecast to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Across the Region

These conditions come after this month's fires in another state, which resulted in the loss of properties and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for the coming days in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves eastward, delivering blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

The mix of tinder-dry land and unbroken 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 darkness recently after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to major transport delays at a key airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Severe impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to create further problems as utility companies work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants.

Atypical Fog Covers Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on record. A particular form of fog, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional fall rainfall that left the ground saturated.

• Primary Driver: Record fall rains saturated the soil.
• Outcome: Extended and thick mist development.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy time.

Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

Turning to another country, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the storm brought some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.

In addition to the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several islands. The effect of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more typical conditions taking hold.