Massive Blackout Disrupts Life Across Spain and Portugal
By RENATA BRITO and BARRY HATTON, Associated Press
BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — A widespread blackout struck Spain and Portugal on Monday, affecting around 50 million residents and halting transportation systems, phone services, and traffic lights. The power outage began just after midday local time, with Spanish power distributor Red Eléctrica estimating that recovery could take between six to ten hours.
The blackout impacted key urban areas, including Madrid and Lisbon. Subways and train services were halted, while traffic lights malfunctioned, resulting in significant disruptions. Many commuters found themselves unable to board crowded buses or connect via mobile networks, although some applications remained operational. In response, Spain’s National Security Council was convened while Portuguese officials held an emergency meeting to address the crisis.
The cause remains unclear, though experts suggest issues with Spain’s electricity distribution network as a likely culprit. Notably, Portugal’s National Cybersecurity Center reported no signs of a cyberattack being involved. Minister Leitão Amaro remarked that the disturbance stemmed from external distribution problems.
Airports in both countries also faced delays; passengers at Lisbon’s airport were left stranded, awaiting updates on their flights. Emergency services switched to generators to maintain operation, and Portuguese police increased their presence to manage traffic and assist individuals stranded in elevators.
While the incident is unprecedented, current reports indicate a cooperative effort between Spain and Portugal’s authorities to restore normalcy. Areas across the Iberian Peninsula saw a dramatic drop in electricity demand, highlighting the scale of the disruption. As citizens navigate the aftermath, concerns grow over communication issues and public transport challenges during this extraordinary event.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
