🔗 Share this article Bushfires Ravage WA as Temperatures Soar Extreme heat and raging bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. As 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 southwestern region. Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout the Region This situation follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for later this week in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, delivering intense heat to much of the area. The mix of extremely dry land and relentless high temperatures creates a volatile situation for firefighters. Worldwide Weather Extremes Trigger Disruption In another part of the world, a major city was left in darkness recently after strong winds compromised the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Severe damage to power systems is anticipated to cause further issues as service providers scramble to restore power to over 1 million residents. Unusual Mist Covers Sunny Region At the same time, a valley known for its sunny weather and abundant sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on record. A specific type of fog, which usually lingers for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, keeping temperatures at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left the ground saturated. Primary Driver: Exceptional autumn rainfall saturated the ground. Outcome: Extended and thick mist development. Effect: Thermal readings remained below average for an extended time. Severe Weather Delivers Wintry Weather to Holiday Destination Turning to another country, a weather system has brought intense rainfall, strong winds and even snowfall to a set of islands – weather many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at higher ground, the system brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown. In addition to the snowfall, fierce winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple locations. The influence of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more typical weather returning.