25 Nov 2024 | 06:05 PM UTC
Ecuador: Power cuts scheduled to continue in areas across country through at least Nov. 28 /update 4
Authorities to continue electricity rationing schedule across Ecuador through at least Nov. 28; transport and business disruptions likely.
Authorities in Ecuador have announced that electricity rationing and associated power outages will continue in areas across the country through at least Nov. 28. According to the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Ministerio de Energia y Minas), in most locations, the cuts will last six or seven hours per day and will be divided into multiple blackout periods spanning various morning, afternoon, and evening hours. Officials have asserted that the outages will abate at some point in December.
Transport and business disruptions are likely in areas affected by power outages; businesses without backup generators could temporarily suspend operations. Mobile voice and internet service disruptions are possible. The electricity disruptions could also affect ATMs and fueling stations. The blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during power outages, especially during hours of darkness.
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 in affected areas. 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.
Develop or review business continuity plan (BCP) sections regarding utility outages. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply. Invest in generators and, if applicable, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Power laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other business or travel-critical appliances regularly. Download available warning apps covering planned or unplanned power outages and monitor announcements from utility companies.
The power cuts are occurring amid ongoing drought conditions that have resulted in decreased hydroelectric power generation capacity. While officials had previously reported improvements in power supply and shorter outage durations, authorities have said that the blackouts will continue until some point in December.
