Venezuela: Power outages reported nationwide Aug. 30

Major electrical outages are being reported across Venezuela on the morning of Aug. 30. The blackouts are reportedly affecting multiple parts of the greater Caracas metropolitan area as well as parts of Anzoategui, Aragua, Carabobo, Cojedes, Falcon, La Guaira, Lara, Merida, Miranda, Monagas, Nueva Esparta, Portuguesa, Sucre, Tachira, Trujillo, and Zulia. Additional areas may also experience electricity cuts. Authorities did not immediately state when electricity will likely be restored. Disruptions to internet connection are also being reported.

Transport, business, and telecommunications disruptions will likely affect areas subject to power outages. Malfunctioning traffic signals may disrupt traffic flow in some areas and lead to longer driving times. The electricity disruptions could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services in affected areas, such as hospitals, ATMs, and fuel stations. Additionally, power disruptions could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during the blackouts.