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Scorching conditions and raging bushfires have devastated the dry 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.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Across Multiple States

This situation come after this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for later this week in areas within South Australia and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves eastward, delivering intense heat to a broad swath of the region.

The mix of tinder-dry vegetation and relentless heat presents a volatile scenario for emergency crews.

Global Weather Extremes Cause Chaos

In another part of the world, a metropolis was plunged into darkness recently after strong winds damaged the city’s power grid, with falling trees bringing down electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were cancelled. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is anticipated to create ongoing issues as utility companies work urgently to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a valley famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on recorded history. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn rainfall that left soils waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and dense mist formation.
• Impact: Thermal readings remained unseasonably low for an lengthy time.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

And in another country, a weather system has brought heavy rainfall, powerful gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, strong northerly winds buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on several islands. The influence of the storm is forecast to ease this week with more seasonal weather taking hold.