Powerful Gales Leave Numerous Homes In the Dark in New Zealand
Severe winds hitting speeds of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to cancel more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire southern region and southern parts of the North Island, according to the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare high-level wind alerts - the top caution category - in key areas such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for further electricity and network failures.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being slowly brought back.
Domestic outlets have reported that in certain areas roofs have been ripped off houses, while power lines and trees have been brought down by the winds.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being struck by a wooden fragment at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was swept into moving cars on a street by a intensive burst, in a incident that was filmed in a popular vehicle recording.
Aircraft services to and from the urban area have been halted because of the gusts, and certain highways and community centers are also closed.
Meanwhile local leaders have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Alongside Severe Weather
The wild winds on this day coincide with tens of thousands of teachers, doctors and other public workers are participating in what has been described as a "mega strike", demanding better pay and working conditions.
Yet the intense climate has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the neighboring country, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Authorities have announced fire bans for fear of forest fires.