🔗 Share this article Wildfires Ravage Western Australia as Temperatures Skyrocket Scorching conditions and raging wildfires 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 severe heatwave warning has been declared across much of the southwestern region. Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout the Region These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the loss of homes and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have additionally been issued for later this week in areas within SA and New South Wales, as a system of atmospheric pressure moves eastward, delivering blazing heat to a broad swath of the area. The combination of extremely dry land and relentless heat presents a volatile situation for emergency crews. Worldwide Weather Extremes Cause Disruption Elsewhere, a metropolis was left in darkness recently after powerful winds damaged the urban electrical network, with falling trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also led to major travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of flights were cancelled. Severe damage to power systems is expected to create further issues as utility companies work urgently to restore power to over 1 million inhabitants. Atypical Mist Blankets Typically Clear Region Meanwhile, a valley famed for its clear skies and abundant sunlight has endured one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on recorded history. A specific type of fog, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been unusually extensive and long-lasting this year, holding temperatures at a major airport below 8C for more than a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by unprecedented autumn precipitation that left soils saturated. Key Factor: Exceptional autumn rainfall soaked the ground. Result: Extended and dense fog development. Impact: Thermal readings stayed below average for an lengthy time. Storm Brings Wintry Weather to Holiday Destination Turning to Spain, a weather system has brought intense rain, strong winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – weather many would not associate with this favored holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unknown at elevated areas, the storm delivered some of the heaviest accumulations in 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown. In addition to the snowfall, fierce winds from the north buffeted the archipelago, with gusts reaching 50mph observed on several locations. The effect of the storm is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions returning.