Fierce Winds Cause Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel over 100 air travel services, according to local media.
The winds are affecting the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have announced rare red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for more utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut seems to be impacting homes predominantly in the southern region, while officials say that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to support disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests Amid Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
