Lebanon: Officials restore limited electricity supply as of Oct. 10 after nationwide power outage Oct. 9 /update 1

Event

Lebanon's state-run utility company Electricite du Liban (Electricity of Lebanon, EDL) has restored a limited supply of electricity of around two hours to the national grid as of Oct. 10 following a nationwide blackout. The Oct. 9 outage was reportedly due to a shortage of fuel at the country's main power stations Al Zahrani and Deir Ammar. Since July 2021, the power plants have only provided a few hours of electricity per day to the national grid because of chronic fuel shortages. Local authorities warned that electricity outages would continue over the coming days and that emergency fuel supplies at the power plants would only last three days; though authorities have secured funds from the central bank to purchase more fuel.

Commercial and communications disruptions are likely to continue for the duration of the limited and unreliable electricity supply in Lebanon. Outages and sporadic power services may impact cellular and mobile services. Some essential services, such as banking and fuel stations, may also be affected. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences. Opportunistic criminal activity could increase during power outages. Road travel delays are possible in areas affected by electricity outages due to possible nonfunctional or malfunctioning traffic lights.

Advice

Charge mobile and communication devices when possible and ensure backup batteries are available. Plan for road travel delays due to possible malfunctioning or nonfunctional traffic lights. Exercise caution when driving in recently impacted areas. Confirm business appointments. Verify that security systems are working. Park vehicles in secure areas, and complete ground movements before nightfall. Ensure that generators are functional and refuel devices where necessary.