Portugal and Spain are working to restore essential services following a major blackout that affected large parts of the Iberian Peninsula. This was the largest power outage in their history. The disruption brought critical infrastructure to a halt, including transport networks, hospitals, internet services, water supply and traffic systems. Metro services in Lisbon, Porto, Madrid and Barcelona were suspended, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The root cause of the disruption is still under investigation.
Portugal
Travel still disrupted
Electricity began returning yesterday afternoon, but disruptions remain. The blackout coincided with a national train strike, intensifying travel challenges. Metro services in Lisbon and Porto have now resumed, while other rail services remain limited.
Hospitals operated on generators during the outage and are currently rescheduling some appointments. Lisbon Airport was forced to close yesterday afternoon, and flight cancellations are ongoing. ANA Airports, which manages all airports in Portugal, is urging passengers to contact their airlines before heading to the airport.
Spain
Infrastructure restored, but some delays persist
Spain’s national grid operator, Red Eléctrica, reported that over 99% of electricity supply was restored by 6am today. Airports operated on backup systems, and some flights were delayed, according to Aena, which manages 56 airports across the country, including Madrid and Barcelona. The Madrid Open tennis tournament was suspended.
Rail services began partially resuming today, although many lines remain suspended. Over 35,000 passengers were rescued from trains yesterday. Major stations remained open overnight to provide shelter. Madrid’s metro network reopened at 08:00 local time today, and metro services in cities like Barcelona and Valencia are also running again.
Andorra and France
Minimal disruption, swift recovery
Parts of Andorra and France, including the city of Perpignan, also experienced temporary power outages as part of the wider regional blackout. However, local authorities confirmed that power was quickly restored following prompt intervention by emergency teams. Disruption to transport and public services in these areas was minimal, and operations have now returned to normal.
Advice
- Travellers should anticipate major delays and disruptions to travel, as traffic and transportation networks were severely affected. Minimise travel, where possible, to allow emergency services and recovery crews access to critical infrastructure.
- Track local media for situational updates, follow all instructions from local authorities and prepare for possible extended delays in rail and air travel.
- Contact booking agents for updated itineraries and rebooking options.
- Expect potential delays or disruptions in healthcare services, communications and other critical services.
- Consider verifying hospital capacity in advance and understanding that non-urgent procedures may be delayed.
- Have cash on hand, if possible, until service to ATMs and payment points is completely restored.
Our Team on the Spot
Gabriela Moura, our Marketing Coordinator, is based in Porto and experienced the blackout firsthand.
“If your flight is cancelled, I’d recommend staying at a hotel as close to the airport as possible, as transport services may also be disrupted. In Spain, many passengers had to be rescued from trains, highlighting how unpredictable these situations can be.
I also always make sure to keep a fully charged power bank with me and carry some food and water in my bag. Yesterday, I went to a few nearby supermarkets and restaurants, but everything was closed. It’s a reminder that being prepared for the unexpected can really make a difference.”