Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege

Iberian blackout shuts sown cities

Image Credits: UnsplashImage Credits: Unsplash
  • A rare atmospheric phenomenon triggered a massive power outage across Spain, Portugal, Andorra, and parts of France on April 28, 2025, affecting millions.
  • Authorities confirmed no signs of cyberattack; instead, abnormal oscillations in high-voltage lines due to extreme temperature shifts are being investigated.
  • Power restoration efforts are ongoing, with emergency protocols activated and partial service restored by late evening in affected regions.

[EUROPE] A widespread power outage struck Spain and Portugal on Monday, April 28, 2025, at approximately 12:33 PM CEST, plunging millions into darkness and disrupting daily life across the Iberian Peninsula. The blackout, described as "absolutely exceptional and extraordinary," has left authorities scrambling to restore services and determine its cause.​

Widespread Disruption Across the Iberian Peninsula

The outage affected nearly all of Spain and large parts of Portugal, as well as Andorra and parts of southwestern France. Major cities like Madrid and Lisbon experienced significant disruptions, including halted subway services, grounded flights, and inoperative traffic lights. Hospitals and emergency services relied on backup generators to continue operations. The blackout also impacted telecommunications, with mobile networks experiencing severe limitations, particularly for voice calls. Retailers reported difficulties with point-of-sale systems, and ATM machines were out of service in many areas.​

Authorities Investigate Rare Atmospheric Phenomenon

Portuguese grid operator REN reported that the outage may have been triggered by "anomalous oscillations" in high-voltage lines, caused by extreme temperature variations in Spain. These oscillations could have disrupted the balance between electricity supply and demand, leading to the widespread blackout. However, both Spanish and Portuguese authorities have stated that it is premature to determine the exact cause, and investigations are ongoing. At this time, there is no indication that the incident was caused by a cyberattack or other malicious activity. ​

Restoration Efforts and Government Response

In Spain, the national grid operator Red Eléctrica de España (REE) activated emergency protocols to restore power. By late evening, approximately 50% of the affected areas had their electricity supply restored. President Pedro Sánchez convened a crisis cabinet to oversee recovery efforts and ensure the stability of the energy system. In Portugal, REN worked to bring power back online, with the aim of restoring service in Lisbon within five to six hours. However, full restoration efforts may take up to a week, depending on the extent of the damage. ​

Public Reaction and Ongoing Challenges

The blackout has sparked widespread concern among residents and businesses. In Lisbon, the metro system was shut down, trams were halted, and tourists faced difficulties accessing accommodations. Hospitality businesses expressed fears of significant economic losses due to the prolonged outage. Emergency services, including ambulances and police, were deployed to manage the situation and assist those affected. ​

Looking Ahead

As investigations continue, authorities are focusing on understanding the underlying causes of the blackout and implementing measures to prevent future occurrences. The event has highlighted the vulnerabilities of interconnected energy systems and the need for robust infrastructure to withstand rare atmospheric phenomena. Residents and businesses are advised to remain prepared for potential disruptions as recovery efforts proceed.


Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Economy United States
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMay 3, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

Car buyers struggle with financing as tariffs loom

[WORLD] As car buyers scramble to purchase vehicles before new tariffs take effect, many are facing an unexpected roadblock: securing financing. The push...

Loans Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansMay 2, 2025 at 7:00:00 PM

Is dealer financing costing you more than it should?

[SINGAPORE] As car buyers in Singapore increasingly rely on financing options to purchase their vehicles, dealer financing has emerged as a popular choice...

Economy Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMay 1, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM

Hong Kong grapples with ride-hailing regulation amid rising demand

[WORLD] In the years since ride-hailing apps first entered Hong Kong’s transportation landscape, their legality has remained a point of contention. Yet, despite...

Transport
Image Credits: Unsplash
TransportApril 25, 2025 at 6:30:00 PM

Smart guide for first-time car buyers

[WORLD] Buying a car for the first time can be both thrilling and overwhelming. With rising vehicle prices, financing complexities, and an abundance...

Financial Planning United States
Image Credits: Unsplash
Financial PlanningApril 22, 2025 at 8:30:00 PM

How to avoid getting ripped off when buying a car

[UNITED STATES] Buying a car can be one of the biggest financial decisions people make, but many consumers end up feeling like they’ve...

Economy United States
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyApril 10, 2025 at 6:00:00 PM

Auto tariffs drive up car costs and economic strain

[UNITED STATES] The United States' sustained 25% tariffs on imported vehicles and forthcoming levies on auto parts are poised to significantly elevate the...

Loans
Image Credits: Unsplash
LoansApril 5, 2025 at 11:00:00 PM

How to choose the right loan for your car purchase

[WORLD] Purchasing a car is often a necessity, but figuring out the best way to finance it can be a challenge. With various...

Economy Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMarch 28, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM

HI Mobility's growth bet on Singapore traffic

[ASIA] HI Mobility, the Malaysian operator of Causeway Link buses, is counting on greater traffic from Singapore to fuel growth as it prepares...

Economy United States
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMarch 27, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM

Trump plans 25% tariff on imported vehicles

[UNITED STATES] Former President Donald Trump has announced plans to put a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles, a move that would substantially...

Economy United States
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMarch 25, 2025 at 4:00:00 AM

How tariffs impact car prices and when to buy

[WORLD] In today's global economy, trade policies such as tariffs have a significant impact on the price of many goods, including cars. With...

Economy
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMarch 17, 2025 at 2:30:00 PM

Volkswagen plans 11 new models in China to reach 4 million units by 2030

[WORLD] Volkswagen, one of the largest and most influential automakers globally, has unveiled an ambitious plan to strengthen its presence in China, the...

Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Load More
Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege