Severe power outage disrupts Spain and Portugal: transport, traffic signals, and phone services disrupted (video)
In the heart of Europe, an unprecedented power outage hit Spain, Portugal, and parts of France, causing widespread chaos on April 28, 2025. The exact cause of this blackout remains under investigation, but it seems that the electric grid took a hit, not from a cyber attack, but a suspected technical failure[1][2].
According to the latest reports, the electrical grid in Portugal pointed towards an issue in Spain's grid, specifically arising from "abnormal fluctuations" in high-voltage lines (400 kV) likely due to extreme temperature changes[1]. These anomalous oscillations eventually caused synchronization failures across the European network.
The fallout from this incident was substantial, affecting transportation systems, healthcare services, and telecommunications. Train movement came to a standstill in key locations like Madrid, Barcelona, and Lisbon, while public transport and traffic lights ceased to function as well. The disruption was so severe that its impacts were felt as far as Belgium.
Medical facilities relying on backup generators managed to keep their operations running, though some faced secondary issues with water and internet supply[2]. So far, no signs of cybersecurity-related triggers or malicious activity have been discovered, but the investigation is likely ongoing.
Meanwhile, social media users and news channels are actively sharing photos and videos of the event on Twitter, painting a vivid picture of the chaos that ensued during those hours. It's essential to stay informed and prepared amidst these unexpected disruptions. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
[1] Source URL 1[2] Source URL 2
- Portugal's electrical grid indicates an issue in Spain's grid, suggesting an origin of the outage from "abnormal fluctuations" in high-voltage lines, possibly due to extreme temperature changes.
- Despite the widespread chaos, medical facilities relying on backup generators managed to keep their operations running, though some faced secondary issues with water and internet supply.
- So far, no signs of cybersecurity-related triggers or malicious activity have been discovered in the investigation of the power outage in Portugal, Spain, and parts of France.
- General-news outlets and crime-and-justice channels are sharing photos and videos of the chaos on social media networks like Twitter, providing insights into the extent of the disruption caused by the unprecedented power outage.
