Powerful Gales Cause Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Intense winds attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes without power and led officials to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been encouraged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Damage and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, though agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Local media have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, and utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto oncoming traffic on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Conditions
The wild winds on this day coincide with many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the extreme weather has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping Australia, bringing a high-temperature event to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
