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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. With temperatures forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major heatwave warning has been issued across much of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Across the Region

This situation come after this month's bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of properties and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for later this week in areas within South Australia and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense sunshine to much of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry land and relentless heat creates a dangerous situation for emergency crews.

Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos

In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into darkness last week after strong winds damaged the urban power grid, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The stormy weather also led to significant travel disruption at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Substantial damage to power systems is anticipated to create further problems as service providers work urgently to restore power to more than 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Blankets Sunny Area

At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest periods on record. A particular form of low cloud, which usually lingers for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and long-lasting this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub 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 precipitation that left soils saturated.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains soaked the ground.
• Outcome: Extended and dense mist development.
• Impact: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time.

Storm Brings Snow to Tourist Destination

And in another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, strong winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While snow is not unheard of at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest snow depths since 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown.

Alongside the snowfall, strong northerly winds swept across the archipelago, with gusts exceeding 50mph observed on multiple locations. The effect of the storm is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.