Powerful Gales Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand
Severe winds attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have caused nearly 90,000 properties experiencing outages and forced authorities to halt over 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
The nation's agencies have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in key areas such as Wellington and Canterbury.
People have been urged to remain inside, stay off roads, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting households predominantly in the southern region, although authorities say that power was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gales.
Across Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a woman was swept into approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a strong gust of wind, in a moment that was captured in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services in and out of the metropolis have been halted as a result of the weather, whereas certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have declared a crisis declaration, to assist disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages Amid Severe Weather
The powerful gales on Thursday occur while tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been termed a "mega strike", calling for higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the severe conditions has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or cancelled.
Like conditions are also sweeping Australia, ushering in a heatwave to the remote areas.
Officials have declared burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
