🔗 Share this article Bushfires Ravage Western Australia as Temperatures Soar Extreme heat and intense bushfires have devastated the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe heatwave warning has been issued across a large portion of the south-west. Broad Heatwave Alerts Across the Region These conditions follow recent bushfires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of properties and fatalities. Severe heatwave warnings have additionally been activated for the coming days in parts of South Australia and NSW, as a system of atmospheric pressure moves to the east, bringing intense heat to much of the region. The mix of tinder-dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures presents a dangerous scenario for emergency crews. Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Disruption In another part of the world, a major city was plunged into blackout last week after strong gusts damaged the urban electrical network, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also caused significant transport delays at a key airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to cause further issues as service providers scramble to reconnect electricity to over 1 million residents. Unusual Mist Covers Typically Clear Area At the same time, a valley known for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on recorded history. A specific type of fog, which usually lasts for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a key transport hub under 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in over three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by unprecedented fall rainfall that resulted in soils saturated. Key Factor: Exceptional fall rains saturated the ground. Outcome: Prolonged and thick fog formation. Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy time. Severe Weather Delivers Snow to Tourist Islands Turning to Spain, a powerful storm has brought heavy rain, powerful gales and even snow to a set of islands – conditions many would not connect with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at higher ground, the system delivered some of the deepest accumulations in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its closure. Alongside the snowfall, strong winds from the north swept across the island chain, with wind gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on multiple locations. The effect of the storm is forecast to ease this week with more typical conditions returning.