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Extreme heat and intense wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels expected to continue soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been declared across much of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Warnings Across the Region

These conditions come after this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the destruction of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have additionally been activated for later this week in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, bringing intense sunshine to a broad swath of the area.

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

Global Climatic Events Cause Disruption

In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness recently after powerful winds compromised the urban power grid, with falling trees bringing down 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 expected to cause further issues as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A particular form of low cloud, which typically 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 longest such streak in more than three decades. The prolonged haze has been fuelled by exceptional fall rainfall that left soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains soaked the soil.
• Result: Extended and dense fog development.
• Effect: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended period.

Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Islands

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has ushered in intense rainfall, strong winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure.

Alongside the snow, strong winds from the north buffeted the island chain, with wind gusts reaching 50mph observed on several islands. The influence of the weather event is forecast to diminish this week with more typical conditions taking hold.