(MENAFN) Powerful winds reaching up to 155km/h (96mph) have swept across New Zealand, cutting electricity to about 90,000 homes and forcing the cancellation of more than 100 flights, according to local media.

The storm, described by officials as one of the most severe in recent years, has affected much of the South Island and the southern parts of the North Island, with the national meteorological service issuing rare red wind warnings — the country’s highest alert level — for regions including Canterbury and Wellington. Though the warnings were lifted later in the day, the damage was already widespread.

Authorities reported roofs torn from homes, fallen trees and power poles, and major transport disruptions. In Wellington, a man was killed after being struck by a falling tree branch while walking on a popular trail, and a woman was blown into oncoming traffic by a strong gust in a moment captured on a viral dashcam video. She survived the incident.

Officials urged residents to stay indoors, avoid travel, and prepare for further power and communication outages. Electricity companies said restoration efforts were under way, with crews working to reconnect affected areas, particularly in the South Island.

In Canterbury, a state of emergency was declared to bolster disaster response efforts. Heavy rainfall has also raised concerns of flooding, with water levels in the Waimakariri River rising rapidly. Local authorities warned that the river could overflow and advised residents in low-lying areas to prepare for possible evacuation.

The extreme weather coincided with a nationwide “mega strike” involving tens of thousands of teachers, doctors, and other public workers demanding higher pay and better conditions.

Many planned outdoor rallies were forced indoors or cancelled due to the dangerous winds.
Across the Tasman Sea, Australia is also grappling with strong winds and soaring temperatures, prompting fire bans amid fears of bushfires in several states.

Meteorologists say the storm system could continue to bring unpredictable conditions in the coming days, warning residents to remain alert and follow safety advisories.

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