🔗 Share this article Powerful Winds Cause Tens of Thousands Without Power in New Zealand Citizens encouraged to stay indoors as powerful gusts strike the country. Powerful gales attaining velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off over 100 aircraft departures, as reported by regional news sources. The gales are influencing the whole southern region and southern parts of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency. The nation's agencies have announced uncommon severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions encompassing Wellington and Canterbury. Residents have been urged to stay indoors, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for further electricity and network failures. Widespread Damage and Emergency Measures This outage seems to be impacting residences mostly in the southern region, while authorities state that power was being slowly brought back. Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been brought down by the gusts. In Wellington, a person was lost his life after being hit by a falling limb at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week. Additionally in the city, a individual was blown onto oncoming traffic on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was filmed in a viral dashcam video. Flights to and from the city have been halted due to the gusts, while various routes and public facilities are also closed. At the same time Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support emergency management operations. Much of New Zealand is experiencing severe weather warnings. Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Weather The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "major walkout", demanding higher wages and enhanced employment terms. But the extreme weather has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies relocated inside or abandoned. Similar gusts are affecting Australia, causing a heatwave to the remote areas. Officials have announced burning restrictions for fear of wildfires.