Intense Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Intense winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 households experiencing outages and forced authorities to call off over 100 flights, as reported by regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire South Island and southern sections of the North Island, per the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released uncommon high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Emergency Response
This outage is primarily influencing homes mainly in the southern region, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto moving cars on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the city have been cancelled because of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a state of emergency, to support emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "major walkout", demanding better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about forest fires.
