Intense Winds Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe winds hitting velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have caused around 90,000 properties experiencing outages and led agencies to cancel over 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
These gusts are affecting the entire South Island and lower areas of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting homes predominantly in the South Island, though authorities report that power was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been knocked down by the gales.
In Wellington, a person was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a popular vehicle recording.
Flights entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled as a result of the winds, and some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to support recovery activities.
Strike Action Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the extreme weather has pressured them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, bringing a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have issued flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
