Bushfires Engulf Western Australia as Thermal Readings Skyrocket
Scorching conditions and intense bushfires have devastated the dry landscape of Western Australia. As temperatures expected to continue climbing above 40C (104F) over the next few days, a severe alert for extreme heat has been issued across much of the southwestern region.
Broad Extreme Heat Alerts Throughout the Region
These conditions follow recent fires in New South Wales, which caused the destruction of homes and loss of life. Severe heat alerts have also been activated for the coming days in parts of SA and New South Wales, as a ridge of high pressure moves to the east, delivering blazing heat to much of the region.
The combination of extremely dry vegetation and unbroken high temperatures creates a dangerous scenario for firefighters.
Global Weather Extremes Trigger Chaos
In another part of the world, a metropolis was left in darkness last week after strong winds damaged the urban power grid, with falling trees knocking out electricity cables. The stormy weather also led to significant travel disruption at a major airport, where hundreds of air services were grounded. Substantial damage to electrical infrastructure is expected to create ongoing issues as service providers work urgently to restore power to more than 1 million inhabitants.
Atypical Fog Blankets Typically Clear Region
Meanwhile, a valley known for its clear skies and plentiful sunlight has endured one of its grayest and most overcast periods on recorded history. A particular form of low cloud, which typically lasts for only a few days, has been unusually widespread and long-lasting this year, keeping temperatures at a key transport hub below 8C for over a week – the longest such streak in more than three decades. The extended fog has been fuelled by exceptional autumn precipitation that resulted in soils waterlogged.
- Primary Driver: Record autumn rainfall soaked the soil.
- Outcome: Prolonged and dense mist development.
- Effect: Temperatures remained below average for an extended time.
Severe Weather Brings Wintry Weather to Tourist Destination
Turning to another country, a weather system has ushered in heavy rainfall, powerful winds and even snow to a group of islands – conditions many would not connect with this favored tourist spot. While snow is not unheard of at elevated areas, the storm brought some of the heaviest snow depths in 2016 to a protected area, compelling its temporary shutdown.
In addition to the snowfall, fierce northerly winds swept across the archipelago, with wind gusts reaching 50mph recorded on several islands. The influence of the storm is expected to ease this week with more typical weather taking hold.
