🔗 Share this article Powerful Gales Leave Tens of Thousands In the Dark in the Island Nation Residents advised to stay indoors as powerful gusts lash the region. Severe gusts hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and compelled authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources. These gusts are impacting the complete southern region and southern sections of the northern region, as stated by the national weather agency. New Zealand authorities have issued infrequent red wind warnings - the top caution category - in core zones encompassing Wellington and Canterbury. People have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and get ready for more power and communication outages. Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, although authorities report that energy was being slowly brought back. Domestic outlets have reported that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while utility poles and vegetation have been toppled by the gusts. Across Wellington, a man was killed after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week. Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into moving cars on a thoroughfare by a powerful blast, in a moment that was captured in a viral dashcam video. Flights to and from the metropolis have been cancelled due to the weather, and various routes and public facilities are not operating. Meanwhile authorities in Canterbury have declared a emergency situation, to assist recovery activities. Significant areas in New Zealand faces intense condition advisories. Strike Action Amid Harsh Weather These intense gusts on today come as many of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", calling for better pay and working conditions. However the extreme weather has compelled them to change some of their plans, with some outdoor rallies shifted to interior venues or called off. Comparable winds are also sweeping Australia, bringing a heatwave to the country's outback. Officials have announced fire bans for fear of bushfires.