🔗 Share this article Bushfires Engulf Western Australia as Thermal Readings Skyrocket Extreme heat and raging bushfires have swept through the parched landscape of Western Australia. With mercury levels forecast to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the south-west. Broad Heatwave Warnings Throughout Multiple States These conditions come after recent fires in another state, which caused the destruction of properties and fatalities. Intense heat alerts have also been issued for later this week in areas within SA and NSW, as a ridge of atmospheric pressure shifts eastward, bringing blazing heat to a broad swath of the area. The combination of extremely dry vegetation and relentless heat creates a dangerous scenario for firefighters. Global Weather Extremes Cause Chaos Elsewhere, a major city was plunged into blackout recently after powerful winds compromised the city’s power grid, with toppled trees knocking out power lines. The weather conditions also led to major travel disruption at a key airport, where hundreds of flights were grounded. Severe impact on electrical infrastructure is expected to cause further problems as service providers scramble to restore power to more than 1 million residents. Atypical Fog Blankets Sunny Area At the same time, a region famed for its sunny weather and plentiful sunshine has experienced one of its dullest and foggiest weeks on record. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lingers for only a few days, has been unusually extensive and persistent this year, keeping the mercury at a major airport under 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in over three decades. The prolonged haze has been fuelled by exceptional fall precipitation that left the ground waterlogged. Key Factor: Record fall rains saturated the soil. Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist formation. Effect: Thermal readings stayed below average for an extended time. Storm Brings Snow to Holiday Destination Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in heavy rainfall, strong gales and even snowfall to a set of islands – conditions many would not associate with this popular tourist spot. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the deepest snow depths since 2016 to a national park, compelling its temporary shutdown. Alongside the snow, strong northerly winds swept across the island chain, with gusts exceeding 50mph recorded on several locations. The influence of the storm is forecast to diminish this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.