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Extreme heat and raging wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major alert for extreme heat has been declared across much of the southwestern region.

Broad Heatwave Warnings Across Multiple States

These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which resulted in the loss of properties and fatalities. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally 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, bringing blazing sunshine to a broad swath of the region.

The combination of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures presents a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Global Climatic Events Trigger Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness last week after powerful winds compromised the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also caused significant travel disruption at a major airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is anticipated to create ongoing problems as service providers scramble to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region

Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been unusually 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 more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by exceptional autumn rainfall that resulted in the ground waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Record autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Extended and dense mist development.
• Impact: Temperatures stayed unseasonably low for an lengthy period.

Storm Brings Snow to Tourist Destination

And in Spain, a weather system has brought intense rain, strong gales and even snow to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While snow is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest accumulations since 2016 to a protected area, forcing its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple locations. The influence of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.