New Zealand storm leaves 85,000 in the dark – DW – 02/13/2023

Around 85,000 people are affected without electricity this Monday (02.13.2023). New Zealand Hundreds of flights were also canceled due to the tropical storm that hit the northern part of the country.

Kieran McAnulty, the minister responsible for emergency management, pointed out that Monday was a “critical day” due to the “very dangerous” combination of strong winds and rain.

The storm weakened from its “hurricane” status, but downed trees, downed power lines and damaged roads.

The government declared a state of emergency in five northern regions, including Auckland.

About 58,000 people were without power in the country’s North Island and officials warned it could take several days to restore service.

Canceled flights

“As long as the weather continues to be severe, it’s going to be unsafe,” McAnulty said of working to restore power lines.

The storm also affected the country’s transport network, with flights grounded and bus and train schedules altered.

Air New Zealand said it had canceled 509 flights and would not resume normal operations until Tuesday.

mg (affp, Reuters)