Puerto Rico: Power restored to most customers Jan. 1 following islandwide outage Dec. 31 /update 3

Power outages continued to affect parts of Puerto Rico on Jan. 1 following an islandwide outage on Dec. 31. Luma Energy, which provides the island's electricity, stated that power has been restored to approximately 85 percent of customers affected by the outage. While authorities have not provided a timeline on when other regions will see power restored, Luma Energy previously stated that the complete restoration of electricity would take 24-48 hours; power disruptions could persist through Jan. 2.

Lingering business and transit disruptions will likely last beyond the complete restoration of power, as companies will need to clear backlogs, and people will likely resume travel and shopping en masse. Disruptions to telecommunications, including mobile SMS, voice, and internet services, are likely until authorities fully restore power.

Some essential services, such as ATMs and gas stations, will likely be unavailable. Road transport disruptions will probably affect areas with malfunctioning traffic signals. The Tren Urbano light rail system, which serves the greater San Juan metropolitan area, remains suspended as of Jan. 1. However, authorities have restored power to San Juan's Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU); flights to and from the airport continue uninterrupted.

Blackouts could additionally adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences. Opportunistic criminal activity could increase during the night due to the lack of street lights. An increased police presence is likely throughout the outage.