Fierce Gales Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced officials to halt more than 100 flights, according to regional news sources.
The gales are impacting the whole southern region and lower areas of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones such as these major districts.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, stay off roads, and get ready for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting homes mainly in the South Island, while authorities say that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a person was fatally injured after being impacted by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Aircraft services to and from the metropolis have been suspended as a result of the gusts, and various routes and public facilities are also closed.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have issued a crisis declaration, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "major walkout", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has pressured them to alter some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Like conditions are affecting Australia, bringing a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for fear of forest fires.
