Intense Gales Cause Numerous Homes In the Dark in the Island Nation
Powerful winds reaching velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in nearly 90,000 homes experiencing outages and forced agencies to call off over 100 air travel services, as reported by local media.
The winds are impacting the complete southern region and southern parts of the North Island, per the country's meteorological service.
The nation's agencies have released rare red wind warnings - the most severe warning - in key areas encompassing Wellington and Canterbury.
Locals have been advised to stay indoors, stay off roads, and make arrangements for further utility disruptions.
Extensive Impact and Emergency Measures
This outage seems to be impacting residences predominantly in the South Island, while authorities state that energy was being restored progressively.
Local media have reported that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, whereas power lines and trees have been toppled by the gusts.
In Wellington, a individual was killed after being struck by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a powerful blast, in a moment that was filmed in a viral dashcam video.
Air travel to and from the city have been halted as a result of the winds, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a state of emergency, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Strike Action During Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday coincide with tens of thousands of educators, medical professionals and government employees take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the extreme weather has pressured them to change various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings moved indoors or called off.
Comparable winds are impacting the neighboring country, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Officials have announced flame prohibitions for concern about bushfires.
