Powerful Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Severe gusts attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced authorities to call off over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the complete southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for additional electricity and network failures.
Widespread Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the southern region, while agencies state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have stated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into moving cars on a road by a powerful blast, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been halted because of the weather, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have declared a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the extreme weather has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
