Fierce Winds Propel Pedestrian Into Traffic in Frightening Incident
Dashcam footage has revealed a shocking incident in New Zealand where strong winds propelled a woman into traffic. The video, recorded by Justin Ashworth, captures the chaotic scene as winds gusted fiercely near a Wellington intersection.
Incident Overview
On the morning of yesterday, the woman struggled to navigate the strong winds when a powerful gust sent her tumbling onto the road. As her belongings scattered, a grey Toyota Prius and a black Volkswagen Golf managed to stop in time, preventing further tragedy. Fortunately, she was pushed back onto the pavement before any vehicles could hit her.
Severe Weather Warnings
The New Zealand MetService has issued a red weather warning due to damaging winds. The north-westerly gusts reached speeds of up to 87 mph, presenting a serious threat to life from flying debris and falling trees. The agency advised residents to seek safe shelter and avoid any travel, given the risk of power outages and hazardous conditions.
Impact of Gale Force Winds
- Wind gusts up to 87 mph recorded.
- Emergency services reported critical injuries after a falling branch struck a man in Mount Victoria, Wellington.
- Residents advised to avoid trees and secure shelter.
In addition to the dangerous winds, the region experienced significant rainfall, with 3-7 inches falling over the past day. A new weather warning has been announced for a more severe weather system expected to arrive soon.
Advice to the Public
The New Zealand Police urged the public to remain vigilant and take care during the ongoing adverse weather conditions. It is crucial for residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary, ensuring their safety amidst unpredictable circumstances.
Regional Weather Disparities
While New Zealand faces destructive winds, neighboring Australia is battling extreme heat. Regions in Queensland and New South Wales are sweltering under record-breaking temperatures, with some areas in Queensland hitting 115 degrees. A heatwave warning is in effect for several districts, and thunderstorms are expected in Sydney later today.
As both countries confront chaotic weather patterns, it serves as a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the importance of safety precautions during severe conditions.
