Millions of citizens in Portugal and Spain were surprised by an unprecedented blackout that left the entire Iberian Peninsula without energy. The cut, which took place on Monday, originated in an abrupt failure in energy production, which led to the loss of electricity.
In the face of instability, energy authorities have been required to disconnect the Iberian network of interconnection with France. The measure sought to avoid greater damage and stabilize the system, but resulted in the total interruption of supply in both countries.
Portugal also plunged into the dark
Although the origin of the blackout was in Spanish territory, Portugal was not immune. Several Portuguese cities were deprived of energy, affecting the operation of public services, companies and communications.
Radios and batteries became precious goods
With the failure of the Internet and mobile networks, many have resorted to stack radios for information. The demand was such that they quickly sold out in commercial establishments, namely in the popular “Chinese bazaars”, according to the .
Interestingly, the most sought after article soon after the power cut was not the lanterns, but the portable gas kitchens. According to several traders, it was the first products to disappear.
Dependence on electricity generated concern
The explanations for this race to gas kitchens were almost unanimous: most dwellings, both in Portugal and Spain, currently depends on electric vitroceramic plates. Without electricity, cooking became impossible.
Families improvised Emergenci solutionsa
Many families have been forced to improvise, using candles for lighting and looking for alternative ways of heating food or water. Some resorted to older fireplaces or stoves stored for emergencies.
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Also affected transport networks
Rail transport and urban traffic lights stopped completely in various locations, creating chaos in the hours of the cut. The authorities asked for calm and reinforced the means on the ground.
Hospitals and health centers activated generators
In health facilities, emergency generators went into operation, ensuring the minimum necessary for hospital care during the blackout. The situation was particularly sensitive in intensive care units.
Banks and multibans ceased to work
Banking services and automatic payment terminals were unavailable for several hours, preventing business transactions and cash surveys.
Portuguese government follows the situation closely
In Potugal, the Portuguese government issued a statement ensuring that it follows the evolution of the restoration of the power grid and is in contact with the Spanish authorities.
Experts advocate greater energy autonomy
The incident rekindled the debate on the need to reinforce Portugal’s energy autonomy, namely through renewable sources and local energy storage.
Despite the negative impact, the episode also revealed gestures of ajuda between neighbors and traders, who shared equipment and useful information with those who needed.
Given an event of this dimension, appeals grow for populations to prepare better for energy emergencies, namely with basic survival kits, such as flashlights, batteries, radios and alternative sources of energy.
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