Powerful Winds Cause Numerous Homes In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe gales reaching speeds of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt over 100 flights, based on local media.
The gales are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in core zones encompassing Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage appears to be affecting households mainly in the South Island, though agencies state that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the city have been suspended because of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Strike Action During Severe Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change some of their plans, with several external protests relocated inside or called off.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, causing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have declared flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
