Fierce Gales Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Severe gusts attaining velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 households lacking electricity and led agencies to call off more than 100 aircraft departures, according to domestic outlets.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and lower areas of the North Island, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in key areas including Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Damage and Crisis Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being restored progressively.
Regional news have stated that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was pushed toward oncoming traffic on a street by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was filmed in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights entering and leaving the city have been cancelled because of the winds, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time Canterbury officials have issued a emergency situation, to assist emergency management operations.
Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on today occur while many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "major walkout", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
However the extreme weather has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the nation's interior regions.
Authorities have announced burning restrictions for apprehension regarding forest fires.
