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Scorching conditions and raging wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As mercury levels expected to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the coming days, a major heatwave warning has been declared across much of the southwestern region.

Broad Extreme Heat Warnings Throughout Multiple States

This situation follow this month's bushfires in another state, which caused the loss of homes and fatalities. Intense heatwave warnings have also been issued for later this week in parts of South Australia and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure shifts to the east, delivering intense heat to much of the region.

The combination of tinder-dry land and unbroken high temperatures presents a volatile scenario for emergency crews.

Worldwide Climatic Events Cause Disruption

Elsewhere, a major city was left in darkness recently after powerful gusts compromised the urban electrical network, with falling trees bringing down power lines. The stormy weather also led to significant transport delays at a major airport, where numerous air services were grounded. Substantial damage to electrical infrastructure is expected to cause further problems as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million residents.

Unusual Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region

At the same time, a region famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of fog, which typically lingers for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, holding the mercury at a major airport below 8C for over a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended haze has been driven by unprecedented fall rainfall that resulted in soils waterlogged.

• Primary Driver: Exceptional fall rains saturated the soil.
• Result: Prolonged and dense mist formation.
• Effect: Thermal readings remained below average for an lengthy time.

Storm Delivers Wintry Weather to Tourist Islands

Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought heavy rain, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at higher ground, the storm delivered some of the heaviest accumulations since 2016 to a national park, forcing its temporary shutdown.

In addition to the snow, strong northerly winds buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on several locations. The effect of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.