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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across much of the south-west.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout the Region

This situation follow recent bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of properties and loss of life. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been issued for later this week in parts of SA and NSW, as a system of high pressure shifts eastward, delivering intense sunshine to much of the area.

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

Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

Elsewhere, a major city was left in blackout last week after powerful winds compromised the urban electrical network, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also led to major travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were cancelled. Substantial impact on power systems is anticipated to create further issues as utility companies scramble to restore power to over 1 million residents.

Atypical Mist Covers Sunny Area

At the same time, a valley famed for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and foggiest periods on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably extensive and long-lasting this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by exceptional fall precipitation that left soils waterlogged.

• Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and dense fog development.
• Effect: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended time.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Destination

Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, strong winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this favored tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

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