Massive Power Outage Plunges Spain, Portugal Into Darkness; Triggers Widespread Disruption: In Pics

A massive power outage swept across Spain and Portugal on April 28, halting essential services and leaving millions in the dark.

A rare and extensive blackout disrupted the daily life of millions of people in Spain, Portugal, and several parts of France.

The outage severely disrupted public transportation including major airports such as Lisbon and Madrid-Barajas as passengers experienced delays and partial closures. (X@iamHamelli)

Due to significant delays and partial closures, flights were grounded and passengers were left stranded at the airport.(X@lepikInfo)

Panicked customers queued outside banks and ATMs in Madrid and other Spanish cities to take out cash. (X@mrshelby101)

A satellite image of the widespread blackout that impacted Portugal, France, and Spain. (X@x_a_n_o)

People in Portugal and Spain have been complaining about not being able to access telecommunications and mobile networks during the power outage.(X@phantomstays)

After the major power outage, people in Spain were spotted lounging in parks, reconnecting with nature, and rediscovering basic outdoor conveniences. (X@socoloffalex)

Subway systems were knocked offline, leaving commuters stranded in darkened stations. Drivers were advised to stay off the roads due to traffic jams caused by malfunctioning traffic lights. (X@nathaniel1975)

Businesses including bakeries and restaurants were forced to close or operate in near darkness and accept cash payments as electronic payment systems failed.(X@iiamguri09)

Later on Monday, authorities announced that power had been restored in south, west, and northern parts of Spain. But it would take more hours to restore power throughout the Iberian Peninsula. (X@phantomstays)