Intense Winds Cause Numerous Homes In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe gales hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have left around 90,000 homes without power and led officials to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, based on domestic outlets.
The gales are affecting the complete South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
Officials in New Zealand have announced uncommon high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Residents have been advised to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for further electricity and network failures.
Broad Impact and Crisis Response
The electricity loss appears to be affecting households predominantly in the southern region, although officials say that power was being restored progressively.
Local media have indicated that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
In Wellington, a man was killed after being impacted by a falling limb at a frequent walking route on earlier this week.
Additionally in the city, a female was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the urban area have been cancelled due to the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to facilitate disaster response efforts.
Labor Protests During Harsh Conditions
The wild winds on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been described as a "significant labor action", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
But the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting the nearby nation, bringing a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Agencies have issued flame prohibitions for concern about wildfires.
