Fierce Gales Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Intense winds attaining speeds of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes experiencing outages and compelled agencies to call off more than 100 air travel services, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern sections of the northern region, according to the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have announced rare high-level wind alerts - the highest alert level - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and prepare for additional utility disruptions.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies report that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in various locations roofs have been ripped off houses, and trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being impacted by a falling limb at a well-known hiking path on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was blown onto moving cars on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was captured in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel in and out of the metropolis have been cancelled because of the weather, while some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a state of emergency, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", demanding improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the intense climate has forced them to change some of their plans, with various open-air gatherings shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for concern about forest fires.
