Intense Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Intense winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes without power and compelled authorities to cancel over 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are impacting the whole South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have announced rare red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for further power and communication outages.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Response
This outage appears to be affecting homes mostly in the South Island, although officials say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, and power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have announced a emergency situation, to support recovery activities.
Labor Protests During Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on Thursday come as tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has pressured them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Similar gusts are impacting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about forest fires.
