Cuba: Electrical service outages occurring nationwide as of Oct. 18 due to power plant failure

Power outages are occurring across Cuba as of Oct. 18 due to a major failure at the Antonio Guiteras power plant. Outages are affecting the entire country. Although technicians are working to restore electrical service, authorities have provided no estimate as to when power will return. Multiple businesses, and schools closed when the blackout began. The Oct. 18 failure is the latest major outage that Cuba has suffered in recent weeks; the government has implemented energy rationing measures.

Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are possible during the outages; cellular and mobile services could be affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are likely during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Power outages could also result in temporarily unavailable essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages. Business disruptions are likely.

Spontaneous protests against perceived government mismanagement are possible nationwide. Localized transit disruptions and clashes between police and protesters are possible.