Blackout Cripples Spain and Portugal, disrupting Millions

BARCELONA — may 20, 2024 — A massive blackout overwhelmed Spain and portugal on Monday. The power outage brought essential services to a standstill, including subways and phone lines, impacting millions across both countries. With the cause still under investigation, officials are working to restore power, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the event and expressing gratitude for international aid.Experts are closely monitoring the situation for further developments.
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Massive Blackout Cripples Spain and Portugal

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — A widespread power outage plunged much of Spain and Portugal into chaos on Monday, disrupting essential services and daily life for millions. Subway and railway lines ground to a halt, phone service was interrupted, and traffic lights went dark, causing widespread traffic jams. ATMs also ceased functioning.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez addressed the nation, attributing the blackout to a “strong oscillation” within the European power grid. He emphasized that the exact cause remained under inquiry and urged the public to avoid speculation, stating that all potential explanations were being considered.

Red Eléctrica, the Spanish power distributor, estimated that restoring full power to both Spain and Portugal could take between six and ten hours. By mid-afternoon, the company reported that voltage was gradually being restored in the northern, southern, and western regions of the Iberian Peninsula. The company refrained from commenting on the potential causes of the massive disruption.Sánchez expressed gratitude to the governments of France and Morocco for providing energy assistance to help restore power to northern and southern Spain.

Meanwhile, the Portuguese National Cybersecurity Centre issued a statement reassuring the public that there was no evidence to suggest the blackout was the result of a cyberattack.

Eduardo Prieto, head of operations at Red Eléctrica, described the event as “remarkable and extraordinary,” highlighting its unprecedented nature.

Capitals Among affected Areas

The blackout impacted major cities across both countries, including the capitals, Madrid and Lisbon. Businesses were forced to close, and traffic was severely disrupted