Power Outage in Spain and Portugal: A Wake-Up Call for Preparedness
By JUSTIN SPIKE, Associated Press
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP) — An unprecedented blackout on the Iberian Peninsula disrupted the lives of millions in Spain and Portugal, highlighting society’s dependence on electricity. While power was mostly restored by Tuesday, the cause of the outage remains uncertain, prompting concerns about future preparedness.
Authorities emphasize the importance of having a plan in place for such emergencies. Experts recommend remaining calm, managing immediate needs like food and water, and avoiding unnecessary travel during outages, as traffic systems may fail.
Home safety is crucial; using battery-powered lights and unplugging appliances can prevent hazards. The European Union has urged its citizens to stockpile essentials, including food and water for at least 72 hours, as crises from wars, cyberattacks, and climate change pose increasing risks.
In the wake of the blackout, battery-powered radios became essential as internet and phone services faltered, reinforcing the need for reliable information access during emergencies. Authorities stress that preparedness is a global responsibility and encourage everyone to keep supplies like cash, blankets, and portable generators on hand to navigate potential disruptions effectively.
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.
