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What caused the blackout in Spain and Portugal?
The blackout, which occurred just after midday, resulted in over 15 gigawatts of electricity disappearing in seconds, affecting nearly the entire Iberian Peninsula. While officials are still determining the exact cause, they have urged the public to refrain from speculating about potential cyberattacks.
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How did the blackout affect daily life and services?
The blackout caused significant disruptions in public transport, phone services, and internet access across major cities in Spain and Portugal. Citizens experienced widespread chaos as essential services were halted, and many were left in the dark for hours.
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What are officials saying about potential cyberattacks?
Officials have been cautious in their statements regarding the cause of the blackout, emphasizing that speculation about cyberattacks is premature. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez noted that over half of the power consumed suddenly disappeared, but investigations are ongoing to determine the true cause.
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What steps are being taken to prevent future blackouts?
In the wake of the blackout, authorities are assessing the situation and exploring measures to enhance the resilience of the power grid. This includes reviewing infrastructure and response protocols to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
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When will power be fully restored?
As of early Tuesday, over 80% of Spain's electricity supply had been restored, but the situation remains fluid. Authorities are working diligently to bring all services back online and will provide updates as they assess the full impact of the blackout.
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What should residents do during a blackout?
During a blackout, residents are advised to stay calm, avoid using candles to prevent fire hazards, and keep flashlights and batteries handy. It's also important to check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with medical needs, and to stay informed through battery-operated radios or mobile devices when possible.