Powerful Gales Leave Numerous Homes In the Dark in New Zealand
Powerful gales hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have left nearly 90,000 homes lacking electricity and led authorities to cancel more than 100 air travel services, as reported by domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent red wind warnings - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and get ready for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials report that the electricity supply was being restored progressively.
Regional news have reported that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the city have been suspended due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Simultaneously authorities in Canterbury have announced a crisis declaration, to assist emergency management operations.
Labor Protests During Severe Weather
The wild winds on today come as tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting better pay and working conditions.
But the severe conditions has forced them to change various scheduled activities, with several external protests moved indoors or abandoned.
Similar gusts are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Agencies have declared flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
