Fierce Winds Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Powerful gusts hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households experiencing outages and led authorities to call off over 100 flights, based on domestic outlets.
The winds are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, as stated by the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in central regions such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Destruction and Crisis Measures
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the southern region, while agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the city have been suspended due to the winds, while various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have issued a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of school staff, physicians and civil servants take part in what has been called a "significant labor action", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Like conditions are impacting the nearby nation, causing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of bushfires.