Intense Winds Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Powerful winds hitting velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households experiencing outages and led agencies to call off over 100 flights, based on local media.
The winds are affecting the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued rare severe gust advisories - the most severe warning - in key areas such as these major districts.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
The power cut seems to be impacting households mostly in the southern region, although authorities state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a street by a intensive burst, in a event that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are not operating.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Amid Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday come as many of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to modify some of their plans, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or cancelled.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, bringing a period of extreme heat to the country's outback.
Authorities have issued burning restrictions for concern about wildfires.
