Fierce Winds Leave Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Intense winds reaching velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left approximately 90,000 households without power and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the whole South Island and lower areas of the northern region, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Measures
The power cut appears to be affecting households mostly in the South Island, although authorities state that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled due to the winds, while certain highways and community centers are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on this day coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been termed a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions.
However the extreme weather has forced them to change certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or abandoned.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced fire bans for concern about bushfires.
