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Extreme heat and intense bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a major alert for extreme heat has been issued across a large portion of the south-west.

Widespread Heatwave Alerts Across Multiple States

This situation follow recent fires in another state, which resulted in the loss of properties and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of SA and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure moves eastward, bringing blazing sunshine to much of the region.

The mix of extremely dry land and relentless high temperatures creates a volatile scenario for emergency crews.

Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Chaos

In another part of the world, a metropolis was plunged into blackout recently after powerful gusts damaged the urban electrical network, with toppled trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous flights were grounded. Substantial impact on power systems is expected to cause further problems as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million inhabitants.

Unusual Fog Blankets Sunny Area

At the same time, a region famed for its sunny weather and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest periods on record. A particular form of fog, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended haze has been fuelled by exceptional fall rainfall that left the ground saturated.

• Key Factor: Record autumn rainfall soaked the ground.
• Result: Extended and dense fog development.
• Impact: Temperatures stayed below average for an lengthy period.

Storm Delivers Snow to Tourist Islands

Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has brought intense rainfall, powerful gales and even snowfall to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths since 2016 to a protected area, forcing its closure.

In addition to the snow, fierce northerly winds buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on multiple islands. The influence of the weather event is forecast to ease this week with more typical conditions returning.