20 Jan 2019 | 10:26 PM UTC
Panama: Widespread power outages reported January 20
Panamanian power company reports power outages across Panama and nearby countries on January 20; crews working to restore power in coming hours
Event
The Panamanian power company ETESA reported disruptions across the country beginning at 11:42 (local time) on Sunday, January 20. The outage reportedly affected millions of homes and businesses, along with a water treatment plant near Chilibre. Outages were also reported in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and El Salvador. The cause of the blackout has not been reported. As of 17:00, crews were still working to restore electricity to affected areas. Residual power and telecommunication disruptions are likely to persist in the coming hours.
Advice
Individuals in Panama and other affected areas are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, be prepared for possible interruptions to tap water availability due to the power outage at the water treatment plant, and anticipate power and telecommunication disruptions.
