Bushfires Engulf Western Australia as Thermal Readings Soar
Extreme heat and raging wildfires have swept through the dry landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures forecast to persist soaring above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe heatwave warning has been declared across much of the south-west.
Widespread Extreme Heat Alerts Across the Region
These conditions follow this month's bushfires in another state, which resulted in the loss of homes and fatalities. Severe heat alerts have also been issued for later this week in areas within SA and NSW, as a ridge of high pressure shifts to the east, bringing intense sunshine to a broad swath of the area.
The combination of extremely dry vegetation and relentless heat presents a volatile situation for firefighters.
Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos
Elsewhere, a metropolis was plunged into blackout last week after powerful gusts damaged the urban power grid, with falling trees bringing down electricity cables. The stormy weather also caused major transport delays at a major airport, where numerous air services were cancelled. Substantial damage to power systems is expected to cause ongoing problems as utility companies scramble to reconnect electricity to more than 1 million inhabitants.
Unusual Fog Blankets Sunny Area
Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and plentiful sunshine has endured one of its grayest and most overcast weeks on record. A specific type of low cloud, which usually lasts for only a short time, has been remarkably widespread and long-lasting this year, holding the mercury at a key transport hub below 8C for more than a week – the most prolonged period in more than three decades. The extended haze has been fuelled by unprecedented fall rainfall that left soils saturated.
- Key Factor: Record fall rains soaked the ground.
- Outcome: Prolonged and thick fog formation.
- Impact: Temperatures stayed below average for an lengthy time.
Storm Delivers Snow to Holiday Islands
And in another country, a weather system has ushered in intense rain, powerful winds and even snowfall to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this favored holiday destination. While wintry precipitation is not unheard of at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the deepest snow depths in 2016 to a national park, compelling its closure.
In addition to the snowfall, strong winds from the north swept across the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The influence of the weather event is expected to ease this week with more seasonal conditions taking hold.
