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Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to persist climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Throughout the Region

This situation follow this month's bushfires in another state, which caused the destruction of homes and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have additionally been issued for the coming days in parts of South Australia and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, bringing intense heat to much of the region.

The combination of extremely dry vegetation and relentless high temperatures creates a dangerous situation for firefighters.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Cause Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into blackout recently after powerful winds compromised the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to major transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to cause ongoing problems as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Area

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on record. A specific type of fog, which typically lasts for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended haze has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn rainfall that resulted in the ground saturated.

• Primary Driver: Record fall rains saturated the ground.
• Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Impact: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended time.

Storm Delivers Snow to Holiday Destination

And in another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, powerful gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not connect with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the system brought some of the deepest accumulations since 2016 to a national park, forcing its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, strong winds from the north swept across the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several locations. The effect of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more seasonal weather returning.